Coupling microbial fuel cells with modified electrode for complete vinasse treatment

• Grant number: 24/01302-5
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships abroad - Research Internship - Doctorate
• Start date: July 15, 2024
• End date: July 14, 2025
• Field of knowledge: Interdisciplinary Subjects
• Principal Investigator: Marcelo Antunes Nolasco
• Grantee: Verena Mandorino Kaminagakura
• Supervisor: Benjamin Erable
• Host Institution: Escola de Artes, Ciências e Humanidades (EACH). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). São Paulo , SP, Brazil
• Institution abroad: Université De Toulouse, France
• Associated to the scholarship: 22/16389-3 - Development of a microbial fuel cell for digestate treatment and energy generation, BP.DR

Abstract

One of the biggest current challenges is the development of technologies that seek to meet energy demand and wastewater treatment. In this context, microbial fuel cells (MFC) present themselves as a promising technology, as they allow the conversion of chemical energy, coming from various substrates, such as vinasse, into electrical energy. However, this process presents some limitations and challenges that seek to improve and increase energy and treatment efficiency and reduce operational costs. This work aims to evaluate the use of low-cost electrodes, based on granular activated carbon modified with Niobium, in power generation, organic matter removal, nitrification and autotrophic denitrification in the treatment of vinasse in a coupled MFC system. The experimental study comprises three phases: inoculation and adaptation; coupling of 2 reactors; and performance evaluation with organic load increase. The efficiency of the system's treatment will be evaluated by monitoring physicochemical parameters. Electrical energy generation and electrochemical parameters will be evaluated based on system voltage and maximum power density. DNA extraction from the electrode biofilm followed by sequencing will allow the assessment of the microbiome for the elucidation and optimization of bioelectrochemical processes. After the development of the project, it is expected that positive results will lead to the improvement of the system, aiming to take advantage of the energy resources contained in the vinasse before its final disposal, contributing to sustainable development in sanitation and energy.