Electric field effect of microbial fuel cells on biological reactions: A review

Many studies have used microbial fuel cell (MFC) to enhance biological reactions to improve the removal of pollutants, but the mechanisms of enhancement are unclear. The fundamental difference between biological reactions in MFC and traditional biological reactions lies in the presence of the electric field. This review analyzes the current research status of the mechanism of electron transfer by electro-active bacteria (EABs) in MFC system and the modulation effect of electric field on microorganisms, and summarizes the research progress on the enhancement mechanisms of nitrogen removal by MFC with a focus on biocathode denitrification. In addition, constructive suggestions on how to further clarifying the enhancement mechanism of MFC on biological responses have been also put forward. This review provides the theoretical basis for further investigation of the mechanisms of enhancement of other biological reactions by MFC.