Biohydrogen Production through Single Chambered Microbial Electrolysis Cell (MEC)

Biohydrogen production is a promising, clean, and renewable alternative to fossil fuels, and it plays a role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting energy security. Microbial Electrolysis Cells (MECs) utilize the metabolic capabilities of microorganisms to turn organic substrates into hydrogen gas, thus providing a much more efficient and sustainable energy solution. This study explores the potential of a membrane-less, single-chamber MEC for generating biohydrogen by utilizing stainless steel and copper wire as anodes. The results indicate a hydrogen production rate of 0.027 LSTP L _A -¹ d-¹ under non-limiting substrate conditions with an applied voltage of 1V. The standardization of electrode materials enhanced the process by limiting interference from methanogenic bacteria. Further optimization of electrode composition and operational conditions can improve scalability and efficiency, which makes MEC technology a feasible pathway for large-scale hydrogen production.