Production of algal biomass (Chlorella vulgaris) using sediment microbial fuel cells

► We suggest a novel method for algal cultivation using a sediment microbial fuel cell (SMFC) system. ► CO2 generation from the SMFC was found to be dependent on current generation from the SMFC. ► CH4 production rate from the SMFC was inhibited by current generation. ► Chlorella vulgaris was successfully cultivated in SMFC format without any further addition of CO2. ► Using the system, the operation of the SMFC is possible without additional oxidant (such as O2) supply. In this study, a novel algal biomass production method using a sediment microbial fuel cell (SMFC) system was assessed. Under the experimental conditions, CO2 generation from the SMFC and its rate of increase were found to be dependent on the current generated from the SMFC. However, the CH4 production rate from the SMFC was inhibited by the generation of current. When Chlorella vulgaris was inoculated into the cathode compartment of the SMFC and current was generated under 10Ω resistance, biomass production from the anode compartment was observed to be closely associated with the rate of current generation from the SMFC. The experimental results demonstrate that 420mg/L of algae (dry cell weight) was produced when the current from the SMFC reached 48.5mA/m2. Therefore, SMFC could provide a means for producing algal biomass via CO2 generated by the oxidation of organics upon current generation.