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Development of a Bio-Digital Interface Powered by Microbial Fuel Cells

Author

Listed:
  • Jiseon You

    (Bristol BioEnergy Centre (BBiC), Bristol Robotics Laboratory, T Block, Frenchay Campus, University of the West of England, Bristol BS16 1QY, UK)

  • Arjuna Mendis

    (Bristol BioEnergy Centre (BBiC), Bristol Robotics Laboratory, T Block, Frenchay Campus, University of the West of England, Bristol BS16 1QY, UK)

  • John Greenman

    (Bristol BioEnergy Centre (BBiC), Bristol Robotics Laboratory, T Block, Frenchay Campus, University of the West of England, Bristol BS16 1QY, UK)

  • Julie Freeman

    (Translating Nature, 11 Palm Bay Avenue, Margate CT9 3DH, UK)

  • Stephen Wolff

    (Translating Nature, 11 Palm Bay Avenue, Margate CT9 3DH, UK)

  • Rachel Armstrong

    (Department of Architecture, Campus Sint-Lucas, KU Leuven, Hoogstraat 51, B-9000 Ghent/Paleizenstraat 65, B-1030 Brussels, Belgium)

  • Rolf Hughes

    (Department of Architecture, Campus Sint-Lucas, KU Leuven, Hoogstraat 51, B-9000 Ghent/Paleizenstraat 65, B-1030 Brussels, Belgium)

  • Ioannis A. Ieropoulos

    (Bristol BioEnergy Centre (BBiC), Bristol Robotics Laboratory, T Block, Frenchay Campus, University of the West of England, Bristol BS16 1QY, UK
    Water & Environmental Engineering Group, School of Engineering, Bolderwood Campus, University of Southampton, Burgess Street, Southampton SO16 7QF, UK)

Abstract

This paper reports the first relatable bio-digital interface powered by microbial fuel cells (MFCs) that was developed to inform the public and introduce the concept of using live microbes as waste processors within our homes and cities. An innovative design for the MFC and peripherals system was built as a digital data generator and bioreactor, with a custom-built energy-harvesting controller that was connected to the system to enable efficient system operation using adaptive dynamic cell reconfiguration and transmit data for the bio-digital interface. This system has accomplished multiple (parallel) tasks such as electricity generation, wastewater treatment and autonomous operation. Moreover, the controller demonstrated that microbial behaviour and consequent system operation can benefit from smart algorithms. In addition to these technical achievements, the bio-digital interface is a site for the production of digital art that aims to gain acceptance from a wider-interest community and potential audiences by showcasing the capabilities of living microorganisms in the context of green technologies.

Suggested Citation

  • Jiseon You & Arjuna Mendis & John Greenman & Julie Freeman & Stephen Wolff & Rachel Armstrong & Rolf Hughes & Ioannis A. Ieropoulos, 2022. "Development of a Bio-Digital Interface Powered by Microbial Fuel Cells," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 14(3), pages 1-12, February.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:14:y:2022:i:3:p:1735-:d:740989
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Hannah Lee & Thai Pin Tan, 2016. "Singapore’s experience with reclaimed water: NEWater," International Journal of Water Resources Development, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 32(4), pages 611-621, July.
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