Ternary Composite of Polyaniline Graphene and TiO₂ as a Bifunctional Catalyst to Enhance the Performance of Both the Bioanode and Cathode of a Microbial Fuel Cell

Abstract

Microbial fuel cells (MFCs) are a potential sustainable energy resource by converting organic pollutants in wastewater to clean energy. The performance of MFCs is influenced directly by the electrode material. In this study, a ternary PANI-TiO₂-GN nanocomposite was used successfully to improve the performance of both the cathode and anode MFC. The PANI-TiO₂-GN catalyst exhibited better oxygen reduction reaction activity in the cathode, particularly as a superior catalyst for improved extracellular electron transfer to the anode. This behavior was attributed to the good electronic conductivity, long-term stability, and durability of the composite. The immobilization of bacteria and catalyst matrix in the anode facilitated more extracellular electron transfer (EET) to the anode, which further improved the performance of the MFCs. The application of PANI-TiO₂-GN as a bifunctional catalyst in both the cathode and anode helped decrease the cost of MFCs, making it more practical