A review of design, operational conditions and applications of microbial fuel cells

The exploitation of fossil fuels, mainly oil and gas, has increased and is causing a worldwide energy crisis. Because of global environmental concerns and energy uncertainty, sustainable and clean energy resources with minimum or zero use of hydrocarbons are being investigated. Microbial fuel cell (MFC) technology changes the energy stored in chemical bonds in organic compounds to electrical energy through catalytic reactions by microorganisms and may be an alternative fuel for energy generation. It offers an opportunity for the sustainable production of energy from biodegradable, reduced compounds. MFCs have applications as biosensors, wastewater treatment and biohydrogen production. The present review article discusses the microorganisms used for MFCs, and their design, components, effect of operational conditions and applications.