Bhavi Pandya and Latesh Chaudhari
Abstract
The increasing demand for sustainable energy technologies that address both environmental and energy challenges has intensified the interest in microbial fuel cells (MFCs). These bio electrochemical systems employ microorganisms as biocatalysts to convert organic matter into electricity while simultaneously treating the wastewater. The selection of the inoculum is crucial for influencing microbial activity, biofilm formation, and the overall performance of MFCs. This study involved the design and operation of a dualchamber MFC utilizing cow dung as the primary inoculum. Cow dung offers a rich and diverse microbial consortium, providing robust adaptability to complex substrates and cost-effective access. The electrochemical properties were systematically evaluated through open-circuit voltage (OCV) monitoring, polarization and power density measurements, cyclic voltammetry (CV), and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). The MFC achieved a stable OCV within a few days of operation, and polarization tests indicated a maximum power density suitable for practical low-power applications. CV analysis revealed distinct redox peaks, confirming the activity of the electroactive biofilms, while EIS results demonstrated a reduction in charge transfer resistance compared to that of unmodified systems. These findings underscore the feasibility of using cow dung as a sustainable inoculum for bioelectricity generation and wastewater treatment in dual-chamber MFCs. This study highlights the potential of this approach for decentralized energy production and environmentally friendly wastewater management in rural and resource-constrained settings.