Bioelectrochemical system-mediated waste valorization

Bioelectrochemical systems (BESs) are a new and emerging technology in the field of fermentation technology. Electrical energy was provided externally to the microbial electrolysis cells (MECs) to generate hydrogen or value-added chemicals, including caustic, formic acid, acetic acid, and peroxide. Also, BES was designed to recover nutrients, metals or remove recalcitrant compounds. The variety of naturally existing microorganisms and enzymes act as a biocatalyst to induce potential differences amid the electrodes. BESs can be performed with non-catalyzed electrodes (both anode and cathode) under favorable circumstances, unlike conventional fuel cells. In recent years, value-added chemical producing microbial electrosynthesis (MES) technology has intensely broadened the prospect for BES. An additional strategy includes the introduction of innovative technologies that help with the manufacturing of alternative materials for electrode preparation, ion-exchange membranes, and pioneering designs. Because of this, BES is emerging as a promising technology. This article deliberates recent signs of progress in BESs so far, focusing on their diverse applications beyond electricity generation and resulting performance.