Electron flows in electro-active biofilms

Bio-electrochemical systems (BESs) have been referred to as a new technology for chemicals productions, bioremediation, and power generation. The role of electro-active microorganisms in these systems is crucial. However, their performance in terms of current output is not competitive for practical application. Recently, higher current outputs have been reported for electro-active bacteria (EAB) controlled under intermittent polarization. Using this regime, biofilm morphology also differed from the structure typically observed under continuous polarization. However, the underlying mechanisms are still to be studied. In this project, we propose the study of charge storage capabilities of electro-active bacteria by integrating optical techniques, electrochemical analysis, and chemical methods (e.g. Optical Coherence Tomography, Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy, and Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectroscopy, respectively) to understand biofilm growth kinetics and biochemical composition. The influence of different anode potentials and intermittent times in the biomass will be assessed aiming at controlling and optimizing biofilms performances in BES.