First Steps towards Parameter Optimization of Bioelectrochemical Systems using a Microsystems Engineering Approach

Abstract

There is a growing interest in exploiting bioelectrochemical systems (BESs), such as microbial fuel cells, as an alternative energy source for sustainable living. Certain species of microorganisms, such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa 14 (PA14) wild type, produce electron carriers, Phenazines, which transfers electrons to the anode in the system and produce digital output signal. The electric current generation of BESs is influenced by many biophysical and biochemical parameters in the system, such as glucose level, cell culture community, cell density, PH, and oxygen level. The existing MFCs are at macroscale, and not suitable for parameter optimization; and as a result they are not yet cost effective. Here, we present our first effort in parameter optimization of BESs using a microfluidic device. Microfluidic device affords us an ability to quickly define a physical and chemical environment for PA14, and its compatibility with microscope allows us a real time observation of the responses. We will present experimental results on the roles of carbon sources in PA14 motility and promising results of Phenazines being a chemoattractant to PA14. We will discuss the relation between PA14 motility and biofilm formation, and subsequently electric current generation.