Enhancing electron transfer efficiency in Microbial Fuel Cells through gold nanoparticle modification of saccharomyces cerevisiae

Abstract

Microbial Fuel Cells (MFCs) present a sustainable alternative for energy generation and wastewater treatment. However, their practical application is limited by the restricted charge transfer through cell walls and membranes. This study investigates the use of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) to augment the conductivity of baker's yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) cell wall in microbial fuel cells. Electrochemical evaluations revealed that yeast:AuNP-modified graphite electrodes produced a higher power density of 22.8 mW/m2, albeit with a lower current density, compared to electrodes modified solely with yeast which produced a power density of 5.7 mW/m2. Despite certain challenges, the findings suggest promising potential for incorporating AuNPs in MFCs to enhance biofuel cell performance. Future research should focus on refining the AuNP modification process to optimize benefits, potentially facilitating broader adoption of MFCs as sustainable energy sources.