Enhanced electricity generation by using algae biomass and activated sludge in microbial fuel cell

• Electricity is generated using wastes.
• Algae biomass and activated sludge are used as substrate in microbial fuel cell.
• A dry algae biomass of 5 g/L resulted the power output of 1.78 W/m2.
• Pre-treatment of activated sludge improved electricity production.
• Lipid extracted algae is tested to replace whole algae for low cost electricity production.

Recently, interest is growing to explore low-cost and sustainable means of energy production. In this study, we have exploited the potential of sustainable energy production from wastes. Activated sludge and algae biomass are used as substrates in microbial fuel cell (MFC) to produce electricity. Activated sludge is used at anode as inoculum and nutrient source. Various concentrations (1–5 g/L) of dry algae biomass are tested. Among tested concentrations, 5 g/L (5000 mg COD/L) produced the highest voltage of 0.89 V and power density of 1.78 W/m2 under 1000 Ω electric resistance. Pre-treated algae biomass and activated sludge are also used at anode. They give low power output than without pre-treatment. Spent algae biomass is tested to replace whole (before oil extraction) algae biomass as a substrate, but it gives low power output. This work has proved the concept of using algae biomass in MFC for high energy output.

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