Photochemical Biofuel Cells

Abstract

A photobioelectrochemical Fuel Cell (PBEC-FC) relies on the synergic effect of electroactive and photo-electroactive microorganisms with or without photosensitive electrode to degrade organic matter for diverse bioelectrochemical application. In addition to wastewater treatment, PBEC-FC is also versatile in producing bioelectricity, biofuel, and pollutant degradation. PBEC-FC can come with a different configuration to accommodate for various applications under specific reaction. As a result of continuous research, there are three developing configurations which are: photosynthetic-BFC (PS-BFC), photovoltaic BFC (PV-BFC), and photoelectrode-BFC (PE-BFC). Studies have demonstrated that light-driven BFC has improved the substrate oxidation in the anode and concurrent bioelectrochemical reaction in the cathode as compared to dark conditions. Motivated by the increasing number of publications for this technology, the various configurations of PBEC-FC that suit different applications and their performance will be discussed in this chapter. Although the current performance of PBEC-FC remains low, but, with a continuous advancement to develop a durable and high photoactive material, this green technology will be realized into practicality in the future.