Bioelectricity production by using goat (Capra hircus) rumen fluid from slaughterhouse waste in mediator-less microbial fuel cells

Microbial fuel cells (MFCs) grasped an outlook for bioelectricity production under global scenario. Many studies have highlighted the utilization of various wastes for electricity generation by this advantageous technology. In the present investigation, an H-type, two-chambered MFC was designed for bioelectricity production using Capra hircus rumen fluid collected from slaughterhouse, paddy straw as substrate, copper as anode, and zinc as cathode. The power output of single MFC was recorded to a maximum of 5.76 W and 8.49 W/m². Effect of acetic acid as catholyte with concentration range (0.0–2.0%) was compared with air cathode. Acetic acid was found to enhance the power output at 2% concentration. Assessment for increased power output was carried out by connecting the four MFCs in series. MFC series performed well with a maximum power output of 67.24 W at 192 h with acetate as catholyte whereas 54.76 W for air cathode. The maximum power density achieved was 42.11 W/m² for acetate in cathode and 34.39 W/m² for air cathode. The MFCs developed with rumen consortia, hay as substrate, and Cu–Zn electrodes were found to be effective in bioelectricity production.