Oxygen Reduction Reaction Electrocatalysts for Microbial Fuel Cells

Abstract

Microbial fuel cells (MFC) are considered to be a promising technology for sustainable wastewater treatment and environmental remediation, but the poor cathode performance usually restricts their application. This chapter summarizes recent advances in the fabrication and use of oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) electrocatalysts for an MFC cathode. The factors governing the activity, selectivity, and stability of various ORR electrocatalysts, ranging from metal-based materials and metal-free carbon materials to biocatalysts, are introduced, and the corresponding regulation strategies are discussed. The current knowledge gaps on the catalyst structure–function correlations are highlighted. Lastly, the future challenges and efforts needed for development of efficient, robust, and low-cost ORR electrocatalysts to suit MFC applications are discussed.