Performance and microbial diversity of microbial fuel cells coupled with different cathode types during simultaneous azo dye decolorization and electricity generation

► Biocathode MFC could greatly improve the Congo red decolorization rate. ► The power density obtained by biocathode MFC was lower. ► The catalytic activity of the microorganisms was comparable with that of platinum. ► Cathode type could induce the difference in anode-attached populations.