Microbial fuel cell review: thermodynamic and infuencing factors, exoelectrogenic bacteria, anode and cathode configuration

Abstract Over the past 20 years the scientific community has become interested in microbial fuel cell microbial fuel cell (MFC) technology, because it offers the potential for the direct conversion of organic waste into power generation through microbially catalysed anodic and microbial–enzymatic–abiotic cathodic electrochemical reactions. Several facts about the technology are taken into account in this evaluation. A brief history of abiotic to biological fuel cells is presented, as well as a presentation of microbial fuel cells and a description of the concept of a microbial fuel cell in a broader range of derivative technologies known as bio‐electrochemical systems with biofilm formation, aerobic and anaerobic digestion of organic materials contained in the substrates and how electrons transfer from the surface of the biofilm to the outer circle. Microbial electrolysis cells, and electro‐synthesis cells are briefly discussed. MFC can be improved through the understanding of previous studies by defining the method of work and the theoretical foundations on which they are built. Moreover, the wide range of criteria that is likely to restrict their performance can be determined by providing a brief explanation of components that make them up. Thermodynamic and biotic factors and the mechanism of operation of these bio‐electrochemical systems need to be considered. A review of the various components that make up the MFC will be proposed, allowing for the illumination of the several scientific locks that continue to limit the technology's effectiveness. This review will provide a discussion of the mechanism of MFCs and provide details about the action of electrically active bacteria in the anode chamber through the generation of electroactive biofilms and the conversion of part of the energy available in the substrates, and this is one of renewable energy which is highlighted by researchers. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).