Microbial fuel cells (MFCs) have emerged as a sustainable technology for simultaneous wastewater treatment, electricity generation, and water desalination. In this study, a ceramic membrane incorporating bamboo leaf ash (BLA) was developed and integrated into an MFC. The primary objective was to optimize the amount of BLA for synthesis of membranes for achieving effective treatment of reverse osmosis (RO) reject water in MFC. The BLA-based ceramic membrane (20

Microbial fuel cell (MFC) technology effectively addresses the dual challenges of wastewater treatment and energy generation, but its widespread application is restricted by the high cost of electrodes. To overcome this, the present study developed a low-cost ceramic anode by blending rice husk ash, mild steel dust, and soil, with the dual objective of treating dye-laden industrial effluents and generating bioelectricity. Two identical MFC configurations were operated using real textile dye wastewater (COD: 2,600 mg/L): one with a ceramic matrix anode containing 50

Microbial fuel cells (MFCs) represent a promising technology for simultaneous wastewater treatment and bioelectricity generation. This study investigates the performance of a single-chamber MFC utilizing a novel pyrolyzed plant-based material incorporated (PPMI) anode, modified with hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂), to enhance electrochemical activity. Reverse osmosis (RO) concentrate and sewage wastewater (SW) were combined in different ratios and used as substrates in 3 MFC setups. The PPMI anode was characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX) spectroscopy, and Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy to analyze surface morphology, elemental composition, and functional groups before and after MFC operation. The experimental results demonstrated that MFCs equipped with the PPMI anode exhibited significantly improved performance compared to those using commercial carbon anodes. The maximum voltage of 865 mV and a peak power density of 300 mW/m2 were observed in the MFC setup with 75

Electronic waste has emerged as a critical global concern due to its complex mix of metals and plastics, which poses significant challenges for conventional solid waste management systems. Within this category, waste fan capacitors represent a notable proportion of the discarded waste, yet offer limited potential for by-product recovery through traditional recycling processes. Owing to their metallic and conductive properties, however, they hold promise for reuse in energy-related applications, particularly in Microbial fuel cells (MFCs), where electrode materials play a crucial role in determining performance, power output, and overall system cost. Consequently, the development of electrodes that are cost-effective, stable, and durable becomes vital for enabling their practical and widespread adoption. In this study, the reuse of waste fan capacitors as anode materials was evaluated for application in microbial fuel cells and was compared against commercial carbon electrodes. Two MFCs were operated using real sewage wastewater with an initial chemical oxygen demand (COD) of 2,700 mg L− 1. The microbial fuel cell equipped with the reused waste fan capacitor demonstrated superior performance, achieving a maximum voltage of 871 mV, a peak power density of 278.9 mWm− 2, a COD removal efficiency of 87.3

The challenges of ensuring a consistent supply of clean water have intensified in the twenty-first century due to rapid industrialization, population growth, and global environmental changes. Reverse osmosis (RO) systems are widely adopted for providing potable water but generate substantial saline wastewater, known as RO reject, which adversely impacts natural water bodies and public health. This review explores the physicochemical properties of RO reject, particularly in Rajasthan, India, and examines traditional disposal and treatment approaches. Microbial desalination cells (MDCs), as an emerging technology, represent a sustainable breakthrough in desalination, offering low-cost operation, nutrient recovery, and energy generation. Their environmentally friendly nature makes them particularly suitable for addressing the challenges of RO reject in arid regions like Rajasthan. This paper critically evaluates MDC fundamentals, components such as membranes and electrodes, and process mechanisms while addressing challenges and proposing mitigation strategies to enhance their efficiency. Additionally, the study reviews alternative strategies employed in Rajasthan, such as flushing, using salt-tolerant plants, and incorporating microbial species capable of thriving in high-salinity environments. Integrating these approaches with advanced desalination technologies could lead to the development of hybrid systems designed for both treatment and reuse of saline water. The proposed hybrid systems, powered by renewable energy and emphasizing resource recovery, offer scalable solutions to enhance water recycling, minimize contamination, and ensure water conservation. This work underscores the potential of MDCs in transforming RO reject management, demonstrating their feasibility for hybridization and broader applications in water-scarce regions globally.

This study evaluated the potential of leftover rose petals, a cellulose-based substrate from Kannauj’s attar industry, for domestic reverse osmosis (RO) reject water treatment in a double-chamber microbial fuel cell (MFC). Comparative experiments were conducted using fresh rose petals as a control substrate at varying concentrations (15 g/L, 20 g/L, and 25 g/L) to assess system performance. Electrochemical analysis, including electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), cyclic voltammetry (CV), and power and current density measurements, was performed under optimal conditions using pre-isolated electroactive bacteria Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The highest power density of 305 mW/m² was achieved at a substrate concentration of 20 g/L, with a corresponding internal resistance of 55.5 Ω. These results demonstrated the viability of repurposing leftover rose petals from the attar industry as a sustainable substrate for bioelectricity generation and domestic RO reject water treatment in MFC systems. Leftover rose petals MFC achieved 305 mW/m² power density with 55.5 Ω resistance. A maximum TDS removal of 68.4

Six horizontal flow small scale constructed wetlands were developed to test the efficacy of discarded clay cups (DCCs) in removing nutrients from saline wastewater. In the summer, the average total dissolved solid (TDS) and chemical oxygen demand (COD) removal effectiveness of constructed wetlands was 82.7% and 80.1%, respectively, whereas in the winter, it was 70% and 65%. DCC bed wetlands have higher TDS and COD removal efficiency, with average removal rates of 83% and 80.6% in the summer and 74.7% and 70.7% in the winter, respectively, as well as better adsorption. Introducing Ipomoea carnea to the DCC bed considerably enhanced (p < 0.05) treatment efficiency of constructed wetlands. Seasonal variation has a substantial impact on pollution removal; however, superior performance was observed during the summer season. Building on insights from small-scale studies, scaling up to full-scale systems will be a key focus for the future scope of this research, allowing us to tackle larger scale water treatment challenges more effectively.

This study explores the potential of plant microbial fuel cells (PMFCs) for generating sustainable bioelectricity by utilizing Delonix regia fruit pods as anode materials. PMFCs leverage plant processes, such as photosynthesis, to release organic carbon into the soil, which is then broken down by microorganisms in the rhizosphere to produce free electrons, protons, and carbon dioxide. These processes can generate bioelectricity by using the redox potential gradient. The study focuses on the advantages of Delonix regia fruit pods due to their biodegradability, high surface area, carbon content, and porous structure, which enhance microbial activity and electron transfer, boosting the energy output of PMFCs. The PMFC utilizing the developed anode attained a peak power density of 230 mW/m2, indicating a substantial enhancement relative to traditional carbon rod anodes (180 mW/m2). Additionally, using these pods as a biomass material supports waste management and offers a cost-effective, renewable alternative to traditional anodes. Nevertheless, some challenges remain for future research such as optimizing microbial community interactions and ensuring system stability under various environmental conditions. This research highlights the viability of agricultural waste materials, like Delonix regia fruit pods, as a sustainable solution for advancing PMFC technology, addressing both energy and environmental concerns.

The plant microbial fuel cell (PMFC) is a novel technology in which organic matter is converted into electricity using living plants and bacteria in the soil. This study presents a sustainable technology for the treatment of dye wastewater and the generation of bioelectricity using an earthen pot-based PMFC. This technique utilized real dye wastewater from the carpet industry for the irrigation of sugarcane plants and a biofertilizer extracted from banana peels with a dosage of 2% in the test PMFC. The application of this biofertilizer in the PMFC markedly enhanced overall performance in dye wastewater treatment, achieving 2.15 times higher color removal and 2.36 times greater chemical oxygen demand (COD) removal compared with the control PMFC (without the biofertilizer). Additionally, plant growth increased by 1.13 times, and electricity generation improved by 3.6 times in the test PMFC. The maximum power density observed was 260 mW/m(2), with COD and color removal efficiencies of 90% and 97%, respectively, in the test PMFC. In the comparative analysis of power densities, the test PMFC exhibited a power density of 260 mW/m(2), significantly outperforming the control PMFC, which demonstrated a substantially lower power density of just 72 mW/m(2). This marked difference underscores the enhanced efficiency and performance of the test PMFC, suggesting potential advancements in PMFCs employing biofertilizers. Therefore, it can be proposed that by utilizing a biofertilizer derived from banana peels in a PMFC system, one can achieve substantial improvements in wastewater treatment efficiency, plant growth, and electricity generation. This method not only addresses environmental pollution from the carpet industry but also contributes to renewable energy production, showcasing a viable solution for integrated waste management and sustainable agricultural practices.

Water hyacinth (WH) also known as Eichhornia crassipes is one of the most invasive water weeds in the world that multiplies rapidly in freshwater bodies, disturbing the ecosystem, biodiversity, and water quality. Conventional control methods are often costly and ineffective, prompting the need for sustainable alternatives. One promising approach is biomass valorization in microbial fuel cells (MFCs), simultaneously addressing invasive species management and renewable energy generation. Beyond its recognized phytoremediation potential, water hyacinth can be effectively integrated into MFCs as a substrate, electrode material, membrane, and catalytic agent. Its lignocellulosic structure and carbonized derivatives offer high surface area and improved electron transfer, while natural fibers and root systems facilitate ion exchange and microbial colonization. These properties enhance MFC performance by boosting conductivity, biocompatibility, and cost‐effectiveness relative to conventional materials. Reported WH‐based MFC systems have achieved chemical oxygen demand (COD) removal efficiencies exceeding 65% and power densities up to 9.7 W/m 3 , demonstrating their dual potential for wastewater treatment and bioelectricity generation. Such multifunctional roles highlight WH as a valuable, low‐cost resource for advancing MFC technologies. This review critically evaluates recent progress in WH utilization for MFC applications, focusing on biomass conversion, electrode and membrane development, and catalytic improvements. Challenges such as pretreatment requirements, electrode stability, and large‐scale feasibility are discussed, alongside strategies for mitigation. By consolidating current research, the paper underscores WH's potential as a cost‐effective and sustainable material in MFC systems, offering new directions for efficient bioenergy recovery and invasive biomass management.

The current study employs the microbial desalination cell (MDC) and uses cost-effective bio-based polymeric membranes. The membrane was developed using the flowering plant Delonix regia flower pod powder (DRF), which was then mixed with polyurethane (PU) (Control MDC). The addition of filler material, glass powder derived from waste (DRFG), to the DRF: PU (50:50 v/v) mixture in a ratio of 1:1 (Test MDC) was done due to the presence of silicates in the elemental composition of glass powder, which will lead to improved hydration, power densities, and ion exchange capabilities. The study revealed that the DRF and DRFG membranes had an ion exchange capacity of 0.078 and 0.098 mmol H+/g, respectively. The analysis revealed that adding recycled glass powder increased the ion exchange capability by 1.25 times as compared to the control MDC. The membranes developed for the MDC system were used to treat the RO-reject water collected from a household RO system in Varanasi, India. The results showed that the power densities of control and test MDC systems were 55 and 230 mW/m2, respectively. Additionally, after 30 days of operation, the ion exchange capacity recorded was 0.040 and 0.095 mmol H+/g for control and test MDC systems, respectively.

This study investigates the novel application of biochar derived from Bixa orellana fruit shell (BOFS), an underutilized agricultural waste, to enhance the performance of microbial fuel cells (MFCs) for textile dye wastewater treatment and energy generation. Four different BOFS biochar doses (0.5, 1, 1.5, and 2 g) were examined, and the optimal dose of 1.5 g achieved a maximum power density of 300 mW/m2—representing a 24-fold enhancement over the control—along with 88.39

This study evaluates the effect of steam-assisted pretreatment of Bougainvillea biomass on bioelectricity generation and wastewater treatment in microbial fuel cells (MFCs) utilizing reverse osmosis (RO) reject water as the electrolyte. Bougainvillea, an underutilized lignocellulosic ornamental plant waste, is naturally resistant to microbial degradation due to its high lignin content. To enhance its biodegradability, the biomass was steam-treated at 121 °C and 15 psi for 30 min, resulting in increased porosity and improved microbial accessibility. Both untreated and pretreated biomass were tested as substrates in dual-chamber MFCs inoculated with a pure Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa), with RO reject water (total dissolved solids (TDS)—655 ± 23 mg/L) serving as the catholyte. Electrochemical characterization through cyclic voltammetry and impedance spectroscopy revealed enhanced redox activity and significantly reduced internal resistance in the system fed with steam-treated biomass. This setup achieved a peak power density of 275 mW/m2 and reduced TDS to 200 mg/L within five days. Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) and microscopy analyses confirmed structural degradation of the lignocellulosic matrix. Moreover, the release of reducing sugars peaked at 215 mg/g, indicating enhanced substrate bioavailability. These findings demonstrate that steam pretreatment is an effective, low-cost strategy to improve both energy recovery and TDS wastewater remediation in MFCs, promoting a sustainable approach to biomass valorization and environmental management.

The increasing demand for sustainable energy solutions has driven research into plant microbial fuel cells (PMFCs) as a renewable bioelectricity sources. This study evaluated the performance of a Dracaena plant-based PMFC utilizing a 3D biomass anode derived from Cassia fistula and varying percentage of municipal solid waste compost (MSWC) to enhance power generation and plant growth. The 3D anode was characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), confirming its porous structure, high carbon content, and thermal stability, which facilitate microbial colonization and electron transfer. Electrochemical analysis revealed that the 3D anode exhibited superior charge transfer efficiency compared to the control anode. The highest power density (204 mW/m2) and current density (255 mA/m2) were achieved with 30

This study investigates the potential of a low-cost, 3D anode derived from waste Cassia Fistula pod biomass for improving textile dye wastewater treatment in a microbial fuel cell (MFC) while enhancing power generation. The porous structure of the 3D anode promoted microbial colonization and boosted electrogenesis. Experimental results demonstrated that MFCs equipped with the 3D anode outperformed those using commercial carbon anodes, achieving a maximum voltage of 971 mV, a peak power density of 275 mW/m², a COD removal efficiency of 90 A 3D anode derived from Cassia Fistula pods enhanced MFC performance. Achieved 971 mV and 275 mW/m², outperforming commercial carbon anodes (n=3). Textile dye wastewater treatment reached 90

The increasing trend in global atmospheric temperature caused by a spike in atmospheric concentrations of carbon dioxide must be addressed as soon as feasible to avoid approaching the point of zero return. Innovative technologies based on the concepts of plant microbial fuel cell (PMFC) may help in this direction by sequestering CO2 while creating a massive amount of biomass. In the present study, the Aloe vera plant was employed to generate Cleaner and viable bioenergy in a PMFC. The carbonized Ipomoea carnea had a synergistic effect on power production and plant Growth. The highest power output of the PMFC with a carbonized Ipomoea carnea anode was 260 mW/m2, which was 186.1 mW/m2 more than the carbon rod anode. Within 35 working days, high biomass was identified in the carbonized Ipomoea carnea anode, allowing for increased generation bioelectricity.

The escalating environmental degradation resulting from an exponential growth in waste generation and improper disposal practices necessitates immediate consideration and innovative solutions. The concept of a circular economy, which emphasizes the potential of solid wastes to be transformed into valuable raw materials, offers a promising approach to address this pressing issue. In this chapter, we explore the transformation of industrial waste into electrode and membrane materials for microbial electrochemical technologies (METs). Various synthetic techniques have been identified, enabling the conversion of industrial waste into viable materials for METs. The proposed framework encompasses critical aspects, including waste pre-treatment, raw material extraction, fabrication, and characterization processes, as well as the performance evaluation of electrodes and membranes derived from waste sources. We thoroughly examine the advantages and limitations associated with waste-derived electrodes and membranes, providing valuable insights into their potential applications and challenges. By harnessing waste resources for electrode and membrane production, we not only contribute to environmental sustainability but also advance toward greener practices and a more sustainable future. The favorable material properties inherent in waste resources and the availability of suitable processing facilities render this approach particularly promising. This chapter elucidates the vast potential of using industrial waste to synthesize novel electrode and membrane materials for METs. By adopting a circular economy mindset and promoting waste recycling and reutilization, we can achieve significant benefits in terms of environmental preservation and resource optimization. The integration of waste-derived materials into METs paves the way for a more sustainable and efficient approach to address environmental challenges.

Ceramic membranes have beenx utilized for long as an inexpensive ion exchange membrane in microbial desalination cells (MDC). This work focuses on producing inexpensive ceramic membranes combining rice husk and soil for use in MDC. A ceramic membrane comprising 30

Microbial fuel cell (MFC) technology efficiently handles the two issues of pollution removal and energy generation at the same time; however, it is limited in its use due to a few fundamental constraints. The key operational constraints of the MFCs are the high cost of electrodes and membranes. To address these issues, carbonized corncob anodes were prepared, and the effect of chemical treatments such as 20% hydrogen peroxide (H 2 O 2 ), 1 N NaOH, and 1 N FeCl 3 on the performance of a single chamber MFC was examined. The comparison of single-chamber MFCs with the bare anode (without any chemical treatment) and the chemically treated carbonized corncob anode were performed. The comparison revealed the excellent electro-catalytic activity in MFC with 20% H 2 O 2 treated anode, exhibiting 91% decrease in internal resistance along with 89% improvement in the maximum power density (89.7 mW/m 2 ). The H 2 O 2 -treated anode demonstrated an increase in oxygen molecule containing functional groups which favored the electron transfer between the bacteria and electrodes. Furthermore, MFCs with 20% H 2 O 2 -treated anode resulted in 18% higher decolorization efficiency of dye wastewater than bare anode. The use of corncob as an anode material made the MFC device construction easier and economical and provided a way forward to study other cheap agro waste materials for use as anode and cathode materials.

Globally, 90% of plastics are synthetic, made up of crude oil, natural gas, and coal. Even though plastic is extremely useful in our lives, its excessive use and mismanaged disposal are negatively affecting the ecosystem. The review highlights that the recycling process plays a critical role in controlling the problem of plastic pollution. Although plastic recycling is the most common approach used for managing plastic waste, only 2% of the total plastic waste enters the closed-loop system. However, the review suggests that along with recycling, cost-effective and environmentally friendly plastic approaches can synergistically help to control this increasing problem of plastic waste accumulation. The review further discusses the consequences of plastic pollution on humans and the environment. In particular, the review focuses on biocatalytic and bioengineering tools for the degradation of polyethylene terephthalate (PET), one of the major contributors to plastic waste in landfills and oceans. Moreover, the review presents biobased and biodegradable materials, derived from renewable feedstocks, as an alternative to petroleum-based plastics along with their complete end-of-life options. Overall, this review analyzes the current scenario of the plastic industry, from plastic production to waste generation and management, loopholes and challenges in the current management strategies, and possible solutions like recycling, biodegradation, and biobased plastics.