A recent journal paper by several EBNet members adds to our knowledge of how microbes spread across anode surfaces in microbial fuel cells (MFCs).
The study investigated spatial and temporal dynamics of community assembly, using a novel multi-electrode MFC with two substrate conditions. Pre-inoculation led to successful current generation within 110 hours, while a dispersed approach failed to establish electrogenic biofilms. Electrode positioning significantly influenced start-up, with vertical alignment above inoculated electrodes facilitating faster colonisation. Community sequencing revealed spatial heterogeneity and a shift from diverse to more optimised anodic communities over time. Long-term current production declined, particularly under batch conditions, suggesting that population drift and limited microbial renewal restrict or prevent sustained performance. The findings underscore the importance of inoculation strategy, substrate selection, and continuous microbial replenishment for optimising MFC performance and real-world applicability.
The paper is based primarily on research carried out by Dr Hannah Bird as part of her PhD: this was not supported by EBNet but we are proud of Hannah as an active Network participant. An early report on the work was presented at the 2024 EBNet ECR conference, and won the prize for best presentation in session. Co-authors include Dr Sharon Velazquez Orta who leads our Bioelectrochemical Systems WG, Dr Ben Allen who was co-Lead of the N2O WG, and corresponding author Dr Elizabeth Heidrich who led the Bioelectrochemical methanogenesis theme in our New Biomethane workshop (preliminary report available here).
Understanding the proliferation of bacteria across anode surfaces in microbial fuel cells (MFCs). Bird, H., Allen, B., Velasquez-Orta, S.B. and Heidrich, E., 2025. Applied Microbiology and Biotechnology.
