Effects of magnetic fields on electricity generation in a photosynthetic ceramic microbial fuel cell

The aim of this study was to improve the efficiency of traditional proton exchange membranes by replacement using ceramic membranes with microalgae cathodes under various magnetic fields (MFs) of 100-300 mT in a ceramic microbial fuel cell (CMFC). The experimental results showed that the power generation can be enhanced by 61% when implementing a 200 mT MF. The application of a higher MF intensity, up to 200 mT, increased the electric charge generation yet decreased it with a higher MF value. Additionally, the MF had the ability to improve the power density of the CMFC, and a maximum power density of 35.9 mW m(-2) and maximum current density of 158.7 mA m(-2) were achieved with the 200 mT MF. Moreover, biocathode maintains a stable pH value that obtained more microalgae biomass by 200 mT MF stimulation. Further work will be focused on optimizing the appropriate MF intensity along with the capacity of carbon dioxide (CO2) absorption by microalgae in CMFC. (C) 2020 Hydrogen Energy Publications LLC. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Automated summary

The study aimed to enhance the efficiency of traditional proton exchange membranes by using ceramic membranes with microalgae cathodes in a ceramic microbial fuel cell under various magnetic fields. Results showed that a 200 mT magnetic field increased power generation by 61% and improved power and current densities. The magnetic field also positively affected the pH stability of the biocathode and increased microalgae biomass. Further research will focus on optimizing magnetic field intensity and CO2 absorption capacity of microalgae in CMFC.