Journal of Energy Bioscience 2024, Vol.15, No.2, 85-95 http://bioscipublisher.com/index.php/jeb 92 and contribute to the biofilm's electroactivity (Fernandes et al., 2021). These findings underscore the importance of optimizing the biofilm's spatial structure and the redox properties of cytochromes to enhance MFC performance. The detailed understanding of ET pathways and the role of EPS in biofilm stability and activity provide valuable insights for the development of more efficient microbial electrochemical technologies. 8 Applications of Understanding Electron Transfer Mechanisms 8.1 Enhancements in MFC design and performance Understanding the electron transfer mechanisms in microbial fuel cells (MFCs) is crucial for enhancing their design and performance. The efficiency of electron transfer directly impacts the power output and overall efficiency of MFCs. For instance, the use of nanowire electron transfer mechanisms has been shown to significantly increase power generation, as demonstrated by mathematical models predicting enhanced current densities with optimized biofilm thicknesses (Lan et al., 2018). Additionally, the spatial structure of electroactive biofilms can be tailored to improve direct electron transfer, as seen with iron phthalocyanine-modified anodes, which resulted in a substantial increase in power density and biomass loading (Li et al., 2021). The position of electrodes also plays a critical role; optimal electrode spacing can enhance electrochemical performance and bioelectricity production, as evidenced by the superior performance of MFCs with 2 cm electrode spacing (Zhou et al., 2020). These insights into electron transfer mechanisms enable the development of more efficient and effective MFC designs, ultimately leading to better performance and scalability. 8.2 Potential for bioenergy production and wastewater treatment The understanding of electron transfer mechanisms in MFCs opens up significant potential for bioenergy production and wastewater treatment. MFCs utilize electroactive bacteria to convert organic waste into electricity, making them a promising technology for sustainable energy generation and environmental remediation. The diversity of electroactive microorganisms, including exoelectrogens and electrotrophs, allows for the utilization of various organic substrates and terminal electron acceptors, thereby enhancing the versatility and efficiency of MFCs in different applications (Logan et al., 2019). For example, the reduction of Cr(VI) and simultaneous bioelectricity production in MFCs highlight their dual functionality in treating contaminated water while generating energy (Zhou et al., 2020). Moreover, the use of advanced nanostructured materials to improve bidirectional extracellular electron transfer (EET) processes can further enhance the efficiency of microbial electrosynthesis, enabling the production of high-value chemicals such as ethanol (Kalathil et al., 2016). These advancements underscore the potential of MFCs as a sustainable solution for both energy production and wastewater treatment. 8.3 Future research directions and technological advancements Future research in the field of MFCs should focus on further elucidating the molecular mechanisms of electron transfer and exploring new materials and configurations to enhance performance. One promising area is the investigation of the electron transfer properties of less-studied electroactive microorganisms, such as Gram-positive bacteria, which could provide new insights and strategies for improving MFC efficiency (Pankratova et al., 2019). Additionally, the development of novel electrode materials, such as 2D nanomaterials, holds great potential for increasing power outputs and achieving industrial-scale applications (Slate et al., 2019). Research should also aim to optimize the conditions for biofilm formation and electron transfer, as different applied potentials can significantly influence the electrochemical behavior and architecture of biofilms. Furthermore, the integration of advanced nanostructured materials to improve the electrical connection between bacteria and electrodes could enhance both EET and microbial electrosynthesis processes (Kalathil et al., 2016). By addressing these research directions, the technological advancements in MFCs can be accelerated, paving the way for their widespread adoption in bioenergy production and environmental remediation. In conclusion, a comprehensive understanding of electron transfer mechanisms in MFCs is essential for enhancing their design, performance, and applications. Continued research and technological advancements in this field will contribute to the development of more efficient and scalable MFCs, ultimately supporting sustainable energy
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