Latex-CNT composites with entrapped microbes as anodes in microbial fuel cells

Microbial fuel cells (MFCs) harness electrons from microbial degradation of substrates to produce electricity. Using more conductive and biocompatible materials and developing a higher density biofilm on the anode are two strategies for increasing power produced by MFCs. Latex polymers were combined with conductive materials, including carbon black and carbon nanotubes, to create a composite that is flexible, sturdy, and electrically conductive. These enhanced polymers can retain conductivity even with very small quantities of carbon nanotubes, reducing cost compared to the pure carbon-based material. Microbes were also enmeshed in latex polymers with CNTs at very high cell densities. The latex preparation allows diffusions of substrate to the entrapped microbes. A combination of latex with exoelectrogenic microbes and conductive materials will help increase anode performance and therefore the overall power generation of MFCs.