Research on basic characteristics of a microbial fuel cell with chlorella vulgaris biocathode

Using the modified microbial fuel cell (MFC) with a tubular photo-bioreactor for a cathode compartment as the experimental model, the electricity generation of MFC, catholyte dissolved oxygen (DO), and growth of Chlorella vulgaris in the cathode chamber were investigated under different light-dark cycles, when C. vulgaris was added in the chamber. The results showed the electricity generation of MFC with C. vulgaris biocathode was obviously enhanced, the maximum power density reached 27.5 mW/m ² in constant illumination group, and 24.4 mW/m ² in light(dark group. The analysis of DO and cyclic voltammetry curve proved that DO was the key factor affecting the electricity generation, and the DO value was more stable in constant illumination group, but lower than that in light-dark group in lighting phase. Moreover, no poison against the cultivation of C. vulgaris was found in the chamber. C. vulgaris grew well, especially in light-dark group. It is suggested that the MFC with C. vulgaris biocathode is better operated under light-dark cycle, and the period of cycle prolonged.