CO2-refinery through microbial electrosynthesis (MES): A concise review on design, operation, biocatalysts and perspectives

• Published in: Journal of CO2 utilization 2023-01, Vol.67, p.102348, Article 102348
• Main Authors: Bakonyi, Péter, Koók, László, Rózsenberszki, Tamás, Kalauz-Simon, Veronika, Bélafi-Bakó, Katalin, Nemestóthy, Nándor
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Biocatalyst; Bioelectrosynthesis; Carbon dioxide utilization; Cathode potential; Renewable energy
• ISSN: 2212-9820; 2212-9839
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jcou.2022.102348

Microbial electrosynthesis cells (MES) are devices with demonstrated capability to treat CO2-containing gaseous streams and alongside, generate certain valuable chemical products, particularly methane gas, carboxylic acids, alcohols, etc. Although there are many varieties of MES with their own individual characteristics, all systems have a lot in common, starting from their design and operational features to the underlying microbiological phenomena. With the support of literature publications and related numerical data, this paper reviews and analyses the most important features of MES to identify general tendencies and practical recommendations pertaining to their design (electrodes, membranes), operation (cathode potential, CO2 feeding, temperature, pH) and biocatalysts ensuring an enhanced performance. As a result, several key-issues are provided to (i) successfully implement MES setups as well as to (ii) outline the perspectives of the technology towards the further promotion and development of this CO2-refinery process. [Display omitted] •Microbial electrosynthesis is a flexible platform for producing electrocommodities.•System efficiency is dependent on material selection, operation and biocatalysts.•Advanced electrodes and membranes could enhance the conversion of CO2.•The biological apparatus in MES should be understood to improve process efficacy.•Perspectives towards technological promotion are outlined.