Influence of the ion-exchange membrane on the performance of double-compartment microbial fuel cells

Four two-compartment microbial fuel cells (MFCs), equipped with the same components except for the membranes, were operated for two months within the same operation conditions, in order to evaluate the effects of the ion exchange membranes (IEM) and the hydraulic retention time (HRT). Results obtained point out that a MFC equipped with Nafion-117 achieves higher current and power densities (829mAm−2 and 268.37mWm−2, respectively) than when the same type of MFC is equipped the cationic exchange membrane Neosepta CMX or the anionic exchange membrane Neosepta AMX, despite both membranes have higher ion exchange capacities. However, no significant differences were found in the wastewater treatment capacities of the different MFCs. In addition, hydraulic retention time (HRT) was found to play an important role in the output energy generation, because low values contributes to minimize the biofouling and, hence, to produce higher current densities. [Display omitted] •MFC equipped with Nafion 117 performs better than with Neosepta CMX.•MFC technology is robust generating an electric current even when anionic membrane Neosepta AMX was used•The type of membrane does not affect the wastewater treatment capacity of MFCs.•Lower HRT leads to higher electrical performance because they minimize biofouling.