Natural, Cost-Effective Anodes for Optimized Sediment Microbial Fuel Cells: Engineering a Novel Approach to Harvesting Energy and Cleaning Up Oil-Polluted Regions
Kimberly Alexis Te
Manhasset, NY
Age 18
The purpose of this study was to engineer an efficient and affordable MFC that enhances electrical energy production and cleans oil spills. Microbial fuel cells (MFCs) use bacteria to produce energy and can potentially remove pollutants from oil spills. Natural loofah sponges (LS) coated with a graphene/titanium dioxide hybrid were tested and found as cheaper and more efficient designs to current MFCs in producing electricity and cleaning up oil. This design is high-performing, sustainable, and accessible. Finally, the novel LS hybrid can be applied to clean up oil spills and provide clean energy for industries, remote sensors, and developing countries.