Thermophiles for biohydrogen production in microbial electrolytic cells

Thermophiles are promising options to use as electrocatalysts for bioelectrochemical applications including microbial electrolysis. They possess several interesting characteristics such as ability to catalyze a broad range of substrates at better rates and over a broad range of operating conditions, and better electrocatalysis/electrogenic activity over mesophiles. However, a very limited number of investigations have been carried out to explore the microbial reactions/pathways and the molecular mechanisms that contribute to better electrocatalysis/electrolysis in thermophiles. Here, we review the electroactive characteristics of thermophiles, their electron transfer mechanisms, and molecular insights behind the choice of thermophiles for bioelectrochemical/electrolytic processes.