In-situ monitoring of soil water characteristics using plant microbial fuel cell: Implications on slope stability analyses

Abstract

Plant microbial fuel cell (PMFC) is a promising technology that could be applied in green infrastructures such as green roofs for bioelectricity generation. While previous research has explored the influence of soil water characteristics on PMFCs in laboratory settings, this investigation extends to understanding natural ambient environmental conditions. A series of PMFCs was deployed for three months to examine bioelectricity generation, soil water characteristics, and ambient environmental conditions, employing three vegetation types, providing an intricate understanding of the coupled bio-hydrological behaviors in the field. PMFC performance was further enhanced by heightened solar radiation and precipitation, amplifying bio-electrical output. However, a 72 %–89 % decline in electrical current and potential occurred at the air entry value due to disrupted ion transport which caused increased soil electrical resistance. This phenomenon underscores the intricate balance between ambient conditions and PMFC performance, laying a foundation for optimizing PMFCs for specific ecological and hydrological contexts. These findings emphasize the potential of PMFCs in real-time, in-situ reflecting of hydrological soil characteristics, offering an innovative approach to ecosystem management and hazard mitigation efforts.