Bioconversion of the cellulose containing waste into electricity through the intermediate hydrogen production

The bioreactor cell combined a hydrogenase-based fuel electrodes and a microbial bioreactor was developed. It was shown that the enzyme electrodes are able to convert hydrogen produced by bacteria into electricity without any additional purification steps. Paper wastes were used as a carbon source. Maximum power output achieved was of 200 μW/cm2. Fuel cell remains at least 70% of the initial power during 72 h. The level of generated power is significantly higher than the reported for microbial fuel cells. The results demonstrate the possibility to generate power at a high rate with a variety of organic compounds used.

► The hydrogenase electrode is stable in bacterial media. ► The system combined advantages of both microbial and enzyme fuel cells was developed. ► Maximum power output achieved was of 200 μW/cm2. ► Fuel cell remained at least 70% of the initial power during 72 h. ► Paper wastes were used as a fuel.