Date of Award
Spring 2009
Project Type
Thesis
Program or Major
Civil Engineering
Degree Name
Master of Science
First Advisor
Jenna R Jambeck
Abstract
Microbial fuel cells are a new technology that can be used for treating landfill leachate and simultaneously producing electricity. Three designs were tested in batch cycles using landfill leachate (908-3200 mg/L COD): a Square (995 mL), Circle (934 mL) and a Large Scale MFC (18.3 L). A total of seven cycles were completed for each the Square MFC and Circle MFC and two cycles for the Larger Scale MFC. Maximum power densities of 24-31 mW/m2 (653 mW/m3-824 mW/m3) were achieved using the Circle MFC and a maximum voltage of 635 mV was produced using the Larger Scale MFC. BOD, TOC, and Ammonia were removed at 50-72%, 17-53 %, and 7-69%, respectively. The Larger Scale MFC achieved 47-86% BOD removal, 51 % TOC removal and 60% ammonia reduction while operating over 52 days. These results demonstrate MFCs can be used to treat landfill leachate with the benefit of power generation.
Recommended Citation
Damiano, Lisa, "Electricity production from the management of municipal solid waste leachate with microbial fuel cells" (2009). Master's Theses and Capstones. 443.
https://scholars.unh.edu/thesis/443