Carbon based nanotubes and nanopowder as impregnated electrode structures for enhanced power generation: Evaluation with real field wastewater

Carbon based multiwalled nanotubes (MWCNT) and nanopowder (CNP) impregnated using conductive epoxy resin on anodic surface were evaluated for bioelectricity generation in single chambered microbial fuel cells in comparison with plain graphite anode (MFCP). The study demonstrated the positive function of carbon nano structures impregnated anode with respect to power generation. MFCMWCNT exhibited higher electrogenic activity (267.77 mW/m2) followed by MFCCNP (168.45 mW/m2) and MFCP (107.51 mW/m2). MFCMWCNT and MFCCNP showed 148% and 57% enhancement in the power generation respectively compared to MFCP. Microbial mediators were also found to be more effective with modified anodes operation. Impregnation with nano material facilitates higher surface area that enables higher charge transfer from anolyte to electrodes. Impregnated anodes showed marginal influence on substrate degradation. Further, feasibility of MWCNT impregnated anode was evaluated with real field distillery wastewater which depicted good electrogenic activity (245.34 mW/m2) and yield (3.43 W/m3).

► Carbon nano structures as anodic impregnations improved power generation in MFC.
► Modified anodes were found to compatible for effective colonization of biocatalyst.
► Compared to plain electrode electrogenic activity improved with MWCNT (148%) and CNP (57%) impregnation.
► Validation with distillery wastewater proved practical applicability of the results.
► Redox mediators involvement in improved performance was evidenced by cyclic voltammetry.