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Publication
Microbial fuel cells’ integration in constructed wetlands: a mini-review
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Advisor(s)
Abstract(s)
Background & Aims: Constructed wetlands (CW) are widely recognized as an e?ective nature-based solution for wastewater treatment with benefits that include low energy consumption, ecological enhancement, aesthetics, and carbon sequestration potential (Calheiros et al., 2015; Vymazal, 2011). As stated by Justino et al. (2023) and Vymazal (2011) CW’s performance could be enhanced through hybrid configurations, combining di?erent hydraulic flows (vertical or horizontal), macrophyte types (emergent, submerged, or floating), and hydrological regimes (subsurface or surface flow). In addition to their treatment capacity, CW are characterized by having organic matter in their substrate and surrounding wastewater, and hosting microbial communities capable of electricity generation through biocatalytic metabolism, under anaerobic conditions. This dual functionality of a CW has been demonstrated in several studies (Angassa et al., 2024; Jacobs et al., 2024). The electroactive bacteria oxidize organic matter and transfer electrons to the anode. The electrons are then transferred to the cathode region through an external resistance. This process results in the generation of bioelectricity while simultaneously treating wastewater. This is the basic principle of microbial fuel cells (MFC) operation. This study aims to critically review current research on the integration of MFCs into CW, focusing on electricity generated from the organic matter content present in the wastewater. Methods: The study proposes a systematic review of relevant scientific literature, with a particular focus on recent developments in MFC associated to CW (Colares et al., 2022). Emphasis will be placed on decentralized wastewater treatment scenarios where influent quality and quantity fluctuate, as typically observed in rural tourism facilities. Implementation challenges such as system complexity, potential toxicity from electrode materials, and pollutants accumulation will also be assessed. The review will be carried out based on scientific databases such as ScienceDirect, SpringerLink, and Scopus to identify trends, technological frameworks, and knowledge gaps. Results: The review provides insights into the current state of MFC application in CW, comparing their performance in treating wastewater and assessing their energy recovery potential. Conclusion: The findings will support the development of a conceptual framework for integrating MFC into CW, enabling more sustainable, decentralized water treatment systems. This contributes directly to SDG 6 by enhancing access to safe water, SDG 11 through support for resilient and sustainable community infrastructure, and SDG 13 by promoting low-carbon, energy- generating wastewater technologies that mitigate climate impact.
Description
Keywords
Advanced technologies Bioelectricity generation Constructed wetland Microbial fuel cells Microbial metabolism Nature-based solutions
Pedagogical Context
Citation
Ojediran, A. A., Pereira, S. I. A., Rosa-Santos, P., & Rodrigues, A. C. et al. (2025). Microbial fuel cells’ integration in constructed wetlands: a mini-review. Abstract from 6th Doctoral Congress in Engineering, Porto, Portugal.