S. Chen, P.N. Aquino, K. Hoang
Ohlone College,
United States
Keywords: biofuel, microbial fuel cell (MFC), composting, renewable energy, electrogenic bacteria, organic waste, bioelectricity, environmental sustainability, waste-to-energy
Summary:
Microbial Fuel Cells (MFCs) offer a promising biofuel solution by directly converting organic waste into electricity through the metabolic processes of electrogenic bacteria. This project integrates an MFC into a composting system, creating a hybrid approach that simultaneously decomposes organic waste and produces bioelectricity. Our design consists of a modified compost bin with an embedded MFC chamber, utilizing anaerobic bacteria to break down organic substrates and capture electrons generated in the process. The resulting energy output, while modest, represents a scalable and sustainable energy source that could be applied to small-scale, off-grid power needs or environmental monitoring systems. We experiment with various substrates (such as food scraps and yard waste) to determine optimal conditions for maximizing energy yield. This project aims to demonstrate the feasibility of a waste-to-energy system that not only reduces landfill contributions but also produces renewable bioelectricity, highlighting its potential as a decentralized energy solution for remote and urban environments alike. Our findings contribute to the growing field of biofuel and bioelectricity research, providing insights into the practical applications of MFCs and expanding the possibilities for sustainable waste management technologies.