Metal-organic frameworks avenues in microbial electrochemical systems as a sustainable approach to waste treatment and bioenergy generation

Abstract

Different pollutants (e.g., organic matter, wastewater, CO₂, etc.) and fossil fuel consumption are the major concerns for the sustainable environment due to their negative impacts on ecosystem and human health. Currently used techniques such as microbial electrochemical systems (MESs) represent a promising technology not only for the treatment of hazardous pollutants, but also for bioenergy generation. Also, the growing popularity of metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) suggests they are an attractive alternative application for wastewater treatment; however, systematic documentation on MOFs-based MESs is scarce despite MOFs being versatile materials with significant potential to enhance the performance of MESs methods. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of the role of MOFs in MESs, exploring their applications as electron mediators and catalyst support in addition to their contribution to improved bioenergy generation, especially bioelectricity. Additionally, this review delves into the utilization of MOFs in the treatment of organic matter in general. Mechanisms and synergistic effects of MOFs in MESs are elucidated, shedding light on their complex interactions with the microorganisms. Finally, an assessment of the current challenges and future directions for harnessing MOFs to advance the field of MESs is evaluated.