Membranes, immobilization, and protective strategies for enzyme fuel cell stability

Enzymatic biofuel cells (EBFCs) for direct biochemical energy conversion are a promising candidate for addressing the growing power demands for low-power implantable and wearable devices. EBFCs comprise electrodes modified with biorecognition elements that produce bioelectrical energy from the redox activity of an organic fuel (sugars, alcohols) and an oxidant at the surface of the anode and cathode. The biorecognition layers are carefully constructed using enzymes immobilized on the electrode via surface modification strategies to increase the enzyme loading and hence the turnover rate. In addition, a polymer encapsulation membrane is implemented to create a protective microenvironment for the enzymes to enhance the biofuel cell's productivity. In this brief review, the different methods carried out to improve the stability of the EBFC system are discussed. New trends and key challenges are presented to illustrate the importance of the various materials implemented in extending the operational lifetime of EBFCs. •Wearable and implantable platforms are used for attractive energy harnessing from biofluids.•Applications of the membrane materials in enzymatic biofuel cells are discussed.•Biocatalyst immobilization strategies for enzymatic biofuel cells are described.•Electron transfer processes to improve the stability and power output of the enzymatic biofuel cell system are discussed.