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Biohybrid-based pyroelectric bio-denitrification driven by temperature fluctuations

Author

Listed:
  • Jie Ye

    (Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University)

  • Shuhui Wang

    (Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University
    Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University)

  • Chaohui Yang

    (Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University)

  • Zhenhao Zuo

    (Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University)

  • Wenzhi Gu

    (Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University)

  • Baogang Zhang

    (China University of Geosciences Beijing)

  • Shungui Zhou

    (Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University)

Abstract

Bio-denitrification is vital in wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs), yet its integration with naturally abundant thermal energy remains unexplored. Here, we introduce a biohybrid-based pyroelectric bio-denitrification (BHPD) process that harnesses thermoelectric energy from ambient temperature fluctuations. By integrating Thiobacillus denitrificans with tungsten disulfide (WS2), we develop a biohybrid system that achieves complete denitrification over three 5-day cycles under 5 °C temperature fluctuations. WS2 either precipitates on the cellular surface or is internalized by cells, generating pyroelectric charges that serve as reducing equivalents to drive bio-denitrification. In real wastewater, the BHPD process enhances nitrate removal by up to 8.09-fold under natural temperature fluctuations compared to stable-temperature conditions. Life-cycle assessment demonstrates that the BHPD process has significantly lower environmental impacts than the conventional anaerobic-anoxic-oxic process, and cost analysis confirms its economic feasibility. Our findings highlight the potential of the pyroelectric effect in enhancing bio-denitrification, offering valuable insights for a paradigm shift in WWTPs.

Suggested Citation

  • Jie Ye & Shuhui Wang & Chaohui Yang & Zhenhao Zuo & Wenzhi Gu & Baogang Zhang & Shungui Zhou, 2025. "Biohybrid-based pyroelectric bio-denitrification driven by temperature fluctuations," Nature Communications, Nature, vol. 16(1), pages 1-14, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:nat:natcom:v:16:y:2025:i:1:d:10.1038_s41467-025-60908-w
    DOI: 10.1038/s41467-025-60908-w
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