Analysis of microbial fuel cell operation in acidic conditions using the flocculating agent ferric chloride

摘要: BACKGROUND Ferric chloride (FeCl3) is widely used as a flocculating agent during wastewater treatment but can detrimentally lower pH and increase iron concentration. Microbial fuel cells (MFCs) are promising technology for treating waste while concomitantly producing electricity so were tested under the extreme conditions imposed by addition of FeCl3. MFCs fed eight concentrations FeCl3 over two 8-week periods effects on power, pH, conductivity, metal content COD examined. RESULTS MFCs generated highest power (3.58 W m-3) at 1.6 mmol L-1 (pH 3.46), however reversed when 2 mmol L-1 3.29). During second run, almost doubled more resilient higher loadings up to 2.8 mmol L-1 3.02). Conductivity increased following soluble phosphorus, sulphur levels decreased significantly in all feedstock reduction was observed efficiency may have been affected presence alternative electron donors such hydrogen sulphide. CONCLUSION These findings demonstrate robustness versatility hostile conditions. They also confirm that complement current processes, even downstream from dosing where might be deemed unsuitable operation. © 2014 Society Chemical Industry