The electrode strategy and its coordination mechanism in constructed wetland-microbial fuel cell (CW-MFC): a review

• Published in: Carbon Research 2024-02, Vol.3 (1), Article 17
• Main Authors: An, Rongdi, Guan, Jiunian, Li, Gaoxiang, Li, Zhuoyu, Sheng, Lianxi, Bian, Hongfeng, Lu, Nan
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Ceramics; Composites; Earth and Environmental Science; Environment; Environmental Engineering/Biotechnology; Fossil Fuels (incl. Carbon Capture); Glass; Natural Materials; Renewable and Green Energy; Review
• ISSN: 2731-6696; 2731-6696
• DOI: 10.1007/s44246-023-00092-y

The electrode played an essential role in the operation of CW-MFC system due to its synergistic effect, and the development of electrode strategy has promoted the application of CW-MFC since 2012. In this paper, according to the material and the quantity, the electrode types in CW-MFC were distinctly divided into unified model, composited model, modified model, and multi-electrodes model combined with non-conductive or conductive particle. Different electrode strategies were provided to improve the performance of CW-MFC towards electricity generation, removal of pollutants, and control of greenhouse gas emission, and the coordination mechanism was further reviewed. Furthermore, the development process of the electrode strategy was summarized, and the low-cost, sustainable, and innovated electrode materials were emphatically recommended. For the scale-up application, multi-electrode model was systematically reviewed based on the optimizing of the material, shape, spacing distance, and connection type of electrode. This review may provide guidance to maximize the advantages of CW-MFC applications. Graphical Abstract Highlights • Electronic receiver and non-conductive or conductive particle was firstly classified. • The electrode application on electricity generation and pollutant removal was reviewed. • The application of emerging electrode materials in CW-MFC was summarized. • The multi-anode and multi-cathode strategy may facilitate the scaling-up of CW-MFC. • The development of electrode material was prospected to extend the function of CW-MFC.