Evaluation of the Datura peels derived biochar-based Anode for enhancing power output in microbial fuel cell application

Activated biochar utilizing Datura metel peel was synthesized using pyrolysis at 800^oC and activated using KOH. The resulting biochar was investigated as an anode material in a Pseudomonas aeruginosa powered microbial fuel cell (MFC) utilizing acetate as the substrate for the first time. The average chemical oxygen demand (COD) elimination was 85.4% in closed circuit mode. The maximum power production was observed in MFC containing 1 mg/cm² biochar impregnated anode with a peak power density measured at 584.2 mW/m². The results of biochar characterization using Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscope (FE-SEM) illustrates the presence of spherical globular texture which indicates the nano spherical structure of carbon nanoparticles in the biochar. The porous texture and interlinked characteristics of carbon nano-spheres can significantly enhance the diffusion of electrolyte ions. The confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) results show a high number of cell biomass on 1 mg/cm² biochar impregnated anode, indicating that 1 mg/cm² biochar promotes enhanced biofilm formation. These results emphasize the utilization of biochar as electrodes in MFCs to allow for simultaneous wastewater treatment and electricity generation.