Effect of Electrolyte Conductivity and Aeration on Performance of Sediment Microbial Fuel Cell

Abstract: Sediment microbial fuel cells (SMFCs) are a promising technology for a viable source of energy. This technology is faced with many challenges, such as limited mass transfer and low electricity generation. The aim of this research was to investigate the effect of electrolyte conductivity and aeration effect on power generation from SMFCs. Electrical conductivity was adjusted at 6different levels by adding several concentrations of NaCl and KCl, which are abundant and economic salts. By adding NaCl, the performance of SMFCs improved about 3.25 fold. Maximum generated power and current density of 32.76 mW/m2 and 330.14 mA/m2are obtained, respectively after NaCl addition. Also, with aeration dissolved oxygen level increased as an electron acceptor in cathode portion, thereby power density enhanced from 16.36 mW/m2 to 38.31 mW/m2which was a 234% increase compared to the situation before aeration.