Enhanced degradation of phenanthrene and pyrene in freshwater sediments by combined employment of sediment microbial fuel cell and amorphous ferric hydroxide

► SMFC deployment led to higher removal efficiencies of PAHs in freshwater sediments than Fe(III) addition. ► A further higher removal efficiency of PAHs in sediments was found under combined application of ferric oxide and SMFC. ► The combination strategy improved the potentials of PAHs biodegradation within sediments under anaerobic pathways except methanogenic condition. ► The combination strategy stimulated humification of SOM in sediments. ► The combined application of Fe(III) addition and SMFC employment offered a new promising remediation technology for contaminated sediments.