Utilizing melanoidin consuming microalgae for electricity generation and wastewater treatment via photosynthetic microbial fuel cell

Aim of the study In our investigation, the freshwater microalgae Chlorella sp. BF01 to degrade the melanoidin in the palm oil mill effluent and generate electricity in the photosynthetic microbial fuel cell (PMFC). Material and methods The freshwater microalgae Chlorella sp. were used in a PMFC consortium for the degradation of melanoidin and electricity generation. The removal (%), electrochemical properties, and biomass recovery were monitored without adding exogenous medium. Results and conclusions In this study, lipid-producing microalgae were employed as whole-cell biocatalysts in a PMFC using palm oil mill effluent as a substrate. The maximal melanoidin removal of 79.54±0.45% was gained. The maximum power density reached was 3.98±0.10 W/m3. The research presents findings that pave the way for the practical implementation of this innovative approach on an industrial scale.