A reverse electrodialysis cell-modified photocatalytic fuel cell for efficient electricity and hydrogen generation from the degradation of refractory organic pollutants

Wastewater treatment is typically energy-intensive. To achieve carbon neutrality, new wastewater treatment technologies that have high efficiency and low energy consumption must be developed. In this study, a reverse electrodialysis (RED) cell-modified photocatalytic fuel cell (PRC) for efficient electricity and hydrogen genera-tion from the degradation of refractory organic pollutants is developed and evaluated. A hydrogen evolution cathode was developed and optimized by doping 1.53 wt. % Ni-N-C on CoP/NF. The bias voltage generated from the RED stack accelerated the separation of photoinduced holes and electrons on the photoanode, which en-hances ampicillin (AMP) degradation and hydrogen production. The RED stack and electrode reactions respectively contribute 72.3 % and 27.7 % to the electricity production of PRC. The output current and cumu-lative hydrogen generation reach 2.2-3.0 mA and 500 mu mol/L respectively with 81.8 % AMP removal. Increasing high concentration (HC), flow rate of NH4HCO3 solutions and AMP concentration could increase the electricity and hydrogen generation. Acidic environment is helpful to improve the reaction rate of hydrogen evolution. We believe this study would provide a promising option for wastewater remediation.

Automated summary

This study develops and evaluates a reverse electrodialysis (RED) cell-modified photocatalytic fuel cell (PRC) for efficient electricity and hydrogen generation from the degradation of refractory organic pollutants. By doping 1.53 wt. % Ni-N-C on CoP/NF, a hydrogen evolution cathode is optimized. The bias voltage generated from the RED stack accelerates the separation of photoinduced holes and electrons on the photoanode, enhancing ampicillin degradation and hydrogen production.