Titanium dioxide nanoparticles modified three dimensional ordered macroporous carbon for improved energy output in microbial fuel cells

Pore structure and surface biocompatibility are crucial factors for microbial fuel cell (MFC) anode performance. In this study, we demonstrated a templating strategy for design of three dimensional ordered porous carbon (3DOM-C) well-patterned macrospores (ca, 400 nm) decorated carbon cloth as anode for high power density MFC. Titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO2) were synthesized to modify the 3DOM-C for increasing biocompatibility. The results of SEM, X-ray diffraction, and nitrogen adsorption-desorption studies demonstrated the hybrid composite had a honeycomb structure with uniform macroporous distribution and high specific surface area. In comparison with carbon cloth MFCs, the hybrid TiO2/3DOM-C anode delivered 2.3-fold higher power density of 973 mW m−2. The increased energy output was contributed to synergetic effects between TiO2 and 3DOM-C due to their unique properties leading to significantly improved electrocatalysis.