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A microbial fuel cell is a sustainable and environmental‐friendly device that combines electricity generation and wastewater treatment through metabolic activities of microorganisms. However, low power output from inadequate electron transfer to the anode electrode hampers its practical implementation. Nanocomposites of oxidized carbon nanotubes and medium‐chain‐length polyhydroxyalkanoates (mcl‐PHA) grafted with methyl acrylate monomers enhance the electrochemical function of electrodes in microbial fuel cell. Extensive polymerization of methyl acrylate monomers within mcl‐PHA matrix, and homogenous dispersion of carbon nanotubes within the graft matrix are responsible for the enhancement. Modified electrodes exhibit high conductivities, better redox peak and reduction of cell internal resistance up to 76%. A stable voltage output at almost 700 mV running for 225 H generates maximum power and current density of 351 mW/m2 and 765 mA/m2, respectively. Superior biofilm growth on modified surface is responsible for improved electron transfer to the anode hence stable and elevated power output generation.

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Practical application of microbial fuel cell (MFC), a sustainable energy device, is hampered by low power output. Its principal components i.e. anode, cathode and proton exchange membrane (PEM) are the focus of enhancement and modification in terms of their functional design and material. The anode surface conduciveness as electron sink is crucial to the power output magnitude, while the cathode electrode should be reactive for efficient oxygen reduction at tri-phase junction. PEM is solely responsible for unidirectional proton flow concomitantly completing the electrical circuit. Polymeric nanocomposites as electrode modifier improved significantly anode/cathode/PEM functions thus overall MFC performance. The review highlights the progress made in polymer-based modifications to anode, cathode and PEM material and function between year 2014 to 2019. The effects to biocompatibility, surface area, internal resistance, electrochemical activities, environmental sustainability, and overall MFC performance are discussed.