Application of redox mediators in bioelectrochemical systems

Abstract

Redox mediators (RM) are natural or artificial compounds used by microorganisms as electron acceptors and electron donors during electron transfer. Evidence collected in the last years indicates that the application of RM in bioelectrochemical systems (BES) enhanced the electron transfer from microorganisms to anodes and from cathodes to microorganisms. This review summarizes the results of using soluble or immobilized RM in BES to produce electricity and for the treatment of contaminants from wastewater effluents. In addition, future research focused on biohydrogen production, recovery or removal metals, and the use of humic substances (HS) extracted from natural environment is proposed.

Keywords: Anode; Bioelectrochemical system; Cathode; Contaminants; Electrogenic microorganisms; Electron transfer; Electrotrophic microorganisms; Energy; Immobilization; Redox mediators.