Synergistic approach to wastewater treatment: Benzene degradation and electricity generation enhancement via commercial sugar in microbial fuel cells

This study investigates the use of single-chamber microbial fuel cells (MFC) with commercial sugar as an organic substrate and benzene as an organic pollutant. The reaction runs for 50 days, aiming to enhance electron generation and water treatment efficiency. Electrochemical analysis revealed a voltage of 300 mV after 37 days, with a power density of 3.42 mW/m². The calculated internal resistance was found to be 500 Ω. Initial conductivity was 1755 mS/cm, increasing to approximately 4123 mS/cm by day 40. Optimal microbial activity and electron transfer efficiency were observed between days 30 and 38, corresponding to the peak power density. Specific capacitance on day 40 was 1.8 × 10− 4 F/g, indicating gradual biofilm development and maturation. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) showed a favorable trend in electron transfers, and benzene degradation efficiency reached 83.33%. Scanning electron microscopy-energy dispersive X-ray (SEM-EDX) analysis confirmed healthy biofilm development. Tatumella citrea, Pectobacterium zantedeschiae, and Serratia plymuthica were some of the most dominant bacteria involved in benzene degradation and electron generation. The study also details the mechanisms of electron transfer, substrate oxidation, and future challenges, highlighting critical scientific outcomes and the potential of MFC for sustainable environmental solutions.