Which kind of membrane should be used in MFC? PEM or CEM which will give better performance?

M. Karthikeyan @M-Karthikeyan-6

15 June 2023 1 3K Report

in a typical MFC H+ ions will form in anode chamber. it is supposed to go through the membrane to the cathode.

many of the research papers use CEM. how is it possible, since H+ and NH4+ are the cations, to be passed through PEM?

proton exchange membranes do transfer cations as well?

someone, please clarify this......

Samsul Islam

In Microbial Fuel Cells (MFCs), both Proton Exchange Membranes (PEMs) and Cation Exchange Membranes (CEMs) can be used as ion-selective barriers to separate the anode and cathode compartments. The choice between PEM and CEM depends on the specific MFC design, operating conditions, and the desired performance.

PEM (Proton Exchange Membrane): Advantages: High proton conductivity: PEMs have excellent proton transport properties, allowing efficient transfer of protons from the anode to the cathode. Low electronic conductivity: PEMs are designed to have low electronic conductivity, preventing direct electron transfer between the anode and cathode and maintaining an electrochemical gradient for microbial activities. Suitable for air-cathode MFCs: PEMs are commonly used in air-cathode MFCs, where oxygen reduction occurs at the cathode. Considerations: Susceptible to dehydration: PEMs require adequate hydration to maintain their proton conductivity, making it crucial to manage water transport and avoid drying out during MFC operation.

CEM (Cation Exchange Membrane): Advantages: Ion selectivity: CEMs selectively allow cation transport, maintaining a charge balance between the anode and cathode compartments. Good durability: CEMs are often more durable than PEMs and can withstand higher temperatures and pH ranges. Suitable for specific MFC configurations: CEMs are commonly used in certain MFC designs, such as anaerobic MFCs with solid-state cathodes. Considerations: Lower proton conductivity: CEMs generally have lower proton conductivity than PEMs, which can affect the overall performance of the MFC. Risk of biofouling: CEMs are susceptible to biofouling and scaling due to the accumulation of cations on the membrane surface.

Performance Comparison: The choice between PEM and CEM depends on the specific application and design considerations of the MFC. In general, PEMs tend to offer better performance in terms of proton transport and electron selectivity, which can lead to higher power output in air-cathode MFCs. However, in certain configurations and operating conditions, CEMs may provide suitable performance while offering advantages such as improved durability and resistance to biofouling.

It's important to note that ongoing research and development in the field of MFCs may lead to advancements in membrane materials and design, providing even better performance and efficiency in the future. When selecting a membrane for an MFC, it's crucial to consider the specific requirements and goals of the MFC application and conduct appropriate testing and evaluation to determine the most suitable membrane type for optimal performance.

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