Journal of Energy Bioscience 2024, Vol.15, No.4, 233-242 http://bioscipublisher.com/index.php/jeb 239 applications and exploring new combinations of nanomaterials to further enhance microbial interactions and electron transfer processes. Additionally, the integration of these advanced materials into practical MFC systems could pave the way for more efficient and sustainable bioenergy production and wastewater treatment technologies (Abd-Elrahman et al., 2022; Tahir et al., 2022; Wang et al., 2022; Yaqoob et al., 2022). 7 Challenges and Future Perspectives 7.1 Technical challenges in material synthesis and modification The synthesis and modification of electrode materials for microbial fuel cells (MFCs) present several technical challenges. One significant issue is achieving a balance between enhancing conductivity and maintaining biocompatibility. For instance, while nanomaterials such as graphene oxide (GO) and metal oxides (e.g., TiO2) have shown promise in improving electron transfer rates and biocompatibility, their synthesis can be complex and costly (Mashkour et al., 2021; Yaqoob et al., 2021c). Additionally, the integration of these materials into existing MFC systems without compromising their structural integrity and long-term performance remains a challenge (Li et al., 2020; Yaqoob et al., 2021b). Advanced materials like NiFe2O4-MXene composites have demonstrated improved electrochemical performance, but their fabrication processes are still in the experimental stages and require further optimization for practical applications (Tahir et al., 2020). 7.2 Scalability and cost-effectiveness Scalability and cost-effectiveness are critical factors for the widespread adoption of MFC technology. The high cost of advanced electrode materials, such as carbon-based nanomaterials and metal-based catalysts, poses a significant barrier (Slate et al., 2019; Cai et al., 2020). Moreover, the production processes for these materials often involve expensive and complex techniques, making large-scale manufacturing challenging (Mashkour et al., 2021). Efforts to develop low-cost alternatives, such as biomass-derived graphene oxide and acrylic-based graphite paints, have shown potential, but further research is needed to ensure these materials can deliver comparable performance to their more expensive counterparts (Masoudi et al., 2020; Yaqoob et al., 2021c). 7.3 Long-term stability and durability The long-term stability and durability of electrode materials are crucial for the sustained operation of MFCs. Materials must withstand harsh environmental conditions, including varying pH levels and the presence of contaminants, without significant degradation (Gajda et al., 2020). For example, surface modifications with polydopamine and reduced graphene oxide have been shown to enhance the stability and electron transfer capabilities of carbon cloth anodes, but their long-term performance under real-world conditions needs further validation (Li et al., 2020). Additionally, maintaining the structural integrity of biofilms on the electrode surface over extended periods is essential for consistent power generation (Mier et al., 2021; Yaqoob et al., 2021b). 7.4 Potential environmental impacts The environmental impacts of using advanced materials in MFCs must be carefully considered. While nanomaterials and metal-based catalysts can significantly enhance performance, their potential toxicity and environmental persistence pose risks (Mashkour et al., 2021). The disposal and recycling of these materials at the end of their lifecycle also present challenges. Research into environmentally friendly and biodegradable materials, such as biomass-derived electrodes, is ongoing and offers a promising direction for reducing the ecological footprint of MFC technology (Yaqoob et al., 2021c). 7.5 Future research directions Future research should focus on several key areas to address the challenges outlined above. First, developing cost-effective and scalable synthesis methods for advanced electrode materials is essential (Slate et al., 2019; Cai et al., 2020). Second, enhancing the long-term stability and durability of these materials through innovative surface modifications and composite structures should be prioritized (Li et al., 2020; Tahir et al., 2020). Third, investigating the environmental impacts of new materials and developing sustainable alternatives will be crucial for the responsible advancement of MFC technology (Mashkour et al., 2021; Yaqoob et al., 2021c). Finally, interdisciplinary research combining electrochemistry, materials science, and microbiology will be vital for optimizing the performance and scalability of MFCs (Mier et al., 2021; Yaqoob et al., 2021b).
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