Hybrid microfluidic fuel cell based on Laccase/C and AuAg/C electrodes

A hybrid glucose microfluidic fuel cell composed of an enzymatic cathode (Laccase/ABTS/C) and an inorganic anode (AuAg/C) was developed and tested. The enzymatic cathode was prepared by adsorption of 2,2′-Azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS) and Laccase on Vulcan XC-72, which act as a redox mediator, enzymatic catalyst and support, respectively. The Laccase/ABTS/C composite was characterised by Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) Spectroscopy, streaming current measurements (Zeta potential) and cyclic voltammetry. The AuAg/C anode catalyst was characterised by Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and cyclic voltammetry. The hybrid microfluidic fuel cell exhibited excellent performance with a maximum power density value (i.e., 0.45mWcm−2) that is the highest reported to date. The cell also exhibited acceptable stability over the course of several days. In addition, a Mexican endemic Laccase was used as the biocathode electrode and evaluated in the hybrid microfluidic fuel cell generating 0.5mWcm−2 of maximum power density. •A biocathode is prepared by adsorption of ABTS and Laccase on Vulcan XC-72.•AuAg/C selective material is used as anode for glucose oxidation.•A hybrid microfluidic fuel cell equipped with both electrodes is evaluated.•The micro-device exhibited the highest performance reported to date.•An endemic Laccase obtained from barley straw is also used as a biocathode.