Title
Investigating the structure and composition of anode-associated biofilms in electrochemical systems
Date of Award
2011
Degree Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science (MSc)
Department
Molecular Science
First Advisor
Martina Hausner
Abstract
Microbial electrolysis cells (MECs) utilize microorganisms to catabolize organic substrates into biohydrogen and are being investigated as a potential solution to meet future energy needs. The focus of this project was to characterize the changes in mircrobial community composition of an anode-associated biofilm and to develop a method to monitor the biofilm in situ from an H-type, ethanol-fed MEC over the lifespan of the reactor. FISH and DGGE results revealed a shift in the biofilm microbial structure and composition from higher microbial diversity in the anaerobic digested sludge inoculum to a more uniform, lower diversity community towards the end of sampling. There was also an overall decrease in methanogenic community members and increase in both anode-respiring bacteria community, specifically Geobacter species, and current density over the time course, implying that a more stable community of anode-respiring bacteria, with minimal methanogens, results in higher current density and a more efficient MEC.
Recommended Citation
Berthiaume, Laura, "Investigating the structure and composition of anode-associated biofilms in electrochemical systems" (2011). Theses and dissertations. Paper 824.
http://digitalcommons.ryerson.ca/dissertations/824