Research Projects

Hydrogen-H2 is gaining attention as a future energy source due to its high carbon footprint and low conversion efficiency. Microbial electrolysis cells (MEC) are a young gen bioenergy technology that generates H2 with 72-93% efficiency using a metal or microbial catalyst as a cathode. The cathode plays a major role in determining H2 generation and conversion efficiencies. However, there is limited knowledge on the importance of cathode substrate and electrode-microbe interactions in MEC. The challenge lies in developing cost-effective and efficient electron transfer biocathode substrates for MEC. The proposal aims to understand the importance of underrated cathode substrates in microbial biofilm formation and hydrogen generation efficiency. The study will also test the efficacy of bio waste as a valuable biocathode and evaluate the role of cathode substrates in microbial community formation. The proposed work will identify the potential of quorum sensing in shaping the cathode biofilm with functional microorganisms for MEC. This work will directly enhance the productivity of MEC by employing self-maintaining biocathodes at lower cost.