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Microbial Electrolysis Cell as a Diverse Technology: Overview of Prospective Applications, Advancements, and Challenges

Author

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  • Devi Radhika

    (Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Engineering and Technology, Jain-Deemed to be University, Jakkasandra, Ramanagara 562 112, Karnataka, India)

  • Archana Shivakumar

    (Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Engineering and Technology, Jain-Deemed to be University, Jakkasandra, Ramanagara 562 112, Karnataka, India)

  • Deepak R. Kasai

    (Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Engineering and Technology, Jain-Deemed to be University, Jakkasandra, Ramanagara 562 112, Karnataka, India)

  • Ravindranadh Koutavarapu

    (Department of Robotics Engineering, College of Mechanical and IT Engineering, Yeungnam University, Gyeongsan 38541, Korea)

  • Shaik Gouse Peera

    (Department of Environmental Science, Keimyung University, Dalseo-gu, Daegu 42601, Korea)

Abstract

Microbial electrolysis cells (MECs) have been explored for various applications, including the removal of industrial pollutants, wastewater treatment chemical synthesis, and biosensing. On the other hand, MEC technology is still in its early stages and faces significant obstacles regarding practical large-scale implementations. MECs are used for energy generation and hydrogen peroxide, methane, hydrogen/biohydrogen production, and pollutant removal. This review aimed to investigate the aforementioned uses in order to better understand the different applications of MECs in the following scenarios: MECs for energy generation and recycling, such as hydrogen, methane, and hydrogen peroxide; contaminant removal, particularly complex organic and inorganic contaminants; and resource recovery. MEC technology was examined in terms of new concepts, configuration optimization, electron transfer pathways in biocathodes, and coupling with other technologies for value-added applications, such as MEC anaerobic digestion, combined MEC–MFC, and others. The goal of the review was to help researchers and engineers understand the most recent developments in MEC technologies and applications.

Suggested Citation

  • Devi Radhika & Archana Shivakumar & Deepak R. Kasai & Ravindranadh Koutavarapu & Shaik Gouse Peera, 2022. "Microbial Electrolysis Cell as a Diverse Technology: Overview of Prospective Applications, Advancements, and Challenges," Energies, MDPI, vol. 15(7), pages 1-19, April.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jeners:v:15:y:2022:i:7:p:2611-:d:786193
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Merabet, Nour Hane & Kerboua, Kaouther & Hoinkis, Jan, 2024. "Hydrogen production from wastewater: A comprehensive review of conventional and solar powered technologies," Renewable Energy, Elsevier, vol. 226(C).

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