Polymeric nanocomposites for innovative functional enhancement of electrodes and proton exchange membrane in microbial fuel cell

Practical application of microbial fuel cell (MFC), a sustainable energy device, is hampered by low power output. Its principal components i.e., anode, cathode and proton exchange membrane (PEM) are the focus of enhancement and modification in terms of their functional design and material. The anode surface conduciveness as electron sink is crucial to the power output magnitude, while the cathode electrode should be reactive for efficient oxygen reduction at tri-phase junction. PEM is solely responsible for unidirectional proton flow concomitantly completing the electrical circuit. Polymeric nano composites as electrode modifier improved significantly anode/cathode/PEM functions thus overall MFC performance. The review highlights the progress made in polymer-based modifications to anode, cathode and PEM material and function between year 2014 to 2019. The effects to biocompatibility, surface area, internal resistance, electrochemical activities, environmental sustainability and overall MFC performance are discussed.

Automated summary

Polymeric modifications to anode, cathode, and PEM materials and functionalities significantly enhance the performance of microbial fuel cell, improving proton flow, reducing internal resistance, and enhancing electrochemical activity, among others.