Harnessing the power: the role of dissimilatory metal-reducing bacteria in microbial fuel cells

Abstract

Dissimilatory metal-reducing bacteria (DMRB) have been considered very important contributors in developing and operating microbial fuel cells that represent one promising technology for waste treatment and sustainable energy generation. In keeping with this spirit, this review paper will scrutinise the elementary mechanisms whereby the unique metabolic processes of DMRB enable their role in facilitating the extracellular transmission of electrons to the anode from organic substrates. Important species like Shewanella and Geobacter are referred to because of their contributions toward improving the stability and efficiency of MFCs. The paper also discusses the benefits of using DMRB, such as their potential in bioremediation and increased electron transfer efficiency. Difficulties examined include preserving microbial stability, competing with other species, and improving operating conditions. The recent developments in materials science, genetic engineering, and integration with other renewable technologies are discussed to demonstrate the potential for future breakthroughs. The last section of this paper discusses the wider implications of DMRB in developing MFC technology for energy and environmental applications.

Keywords: Biofilms; Electrogens; Electron shuttles; Extracellular matrix; Metal reducing bacteria.