Fuel Cells, Bioreactors, and Sensors
Microbial fuel cells
Modern hydrogen- and methanol-oxidizing fuel cells support power densities that are orders of magnitude higher than what is typically achieved in microbial fuel cells. We focus on growth and electron transfer at fuel cell anodes, as this represents the least well understood aspect of microbial fuel cells. Our research platform, optimized by Dr. Enrico Marsili, is based on membrane electrode assemblies fabricated in our laboratory. These devices minimize most common limitations, measure dynamics of biofilm electron transfer in situ, and supply data for modeling and physiological studies.
Modeling of electrode biofilms
Through collaborations with Dr. Timothy LaPara, Dr. Ray Holzalski, and Dr. Tsutomu Shimotori, (Civil Engineering), we study mass-transfer and consumption of reactants in electricity producing biofilms using a modeling approach. This work has again highlighted discrepancies between predicted and observed power production in microbial fuel cells, suggesting areas for significant improvement. As part of this work, we also operate larger bioreactors able to accommodate our membrane electrode assemblies and in situ electrochemical analyses, for comparison to other work.
Microfabricated surfaces
Through collaborations with Dr. Rhonda Franklin Drayton (Electrical Engineering), we are investigating colonization and behavior of bacteria in devices fabricated from silicon using microfabrication techniques at the U of M’s Nanofabrication center. These findings are being used to fabricate electrode arrays and sensory devices capable of monitoring early colonization events, and resistance issues related to electricity production by bacteria.
