Application of microbial fuel cell technology for vinasse treatment and bioelectricity generation

ObjectiveOur study evaluated the performance of different two-chambered microbial fuel cell (MFC) prototypes, operated with variable distance between electrodes and Nafion membrane and specific inoculum concentration, applied for vinasse treatment.ResultsThe performance of the developed MFC resulted in a maximum current density of 1200mAm(-2) and power density of 800mWm(-2) in a period of 61days. MFC performed a chemical oxygen demand removal at a rate ranging from 51 to 60%.ConclusionsTaking our preliminary results into consideration, we concluded that the MFC technology presents itself as highly promising for the treatment of vinasse.