Power generation using spinel manganese-cobalt oxide as a cathode catalyst for microbial fuel cell applications

► We used spinel manganese-cobalt (Mn-Co) oxides for microbial fuel cells (MFCs) applications. ► We prepared Mn-Co oxides by a solid state reaction with different initial Mn/Co atomic ratios. ► Mn-Co oxide with Mn/Co atomic ratio of 2 was the most effective catalyst toward ORR due to the highest BET surface area. ► Mn-Co oxide catalysts exhibited a great potential to replace platinum as a cathode catalyst for MFCs.