Design and characterization of a microbial fuel cell for the conversion of a lignocellulosic crop residue to electricity

▸ A novel, solid-substrate microbial fuel cell was developed. ▸ Cellulose hydrolysis, fermentation, and anode respiration occurred in one chamber. ▸ Electricity was produced directly from corncob pellets and sustained for >60 d. ▸ Power production was enhanced by periodic exposure to oxygen. ▸ Adding Geobacter metallireducens increased power in absence of methanogenesis.