The bacteria present in organic waste, during their natural life cycle, are capable of producing hydrogen ions (H⁺) and electrons (e⁻), thereby generating an electric current. Microbial fuel cells, composed of two electrodes—cathode and anode—and a polymeric membrane separating them, make it possible to harness the capabilities of these bacteria to generate electricity.

The waste, which serves as a nutrient source for the bacteria, is broken down during the period in which electricity is generated. At the end of this process, after being exploited for energy purposes, it can still be reused as a material for fertilizers. This emerging technology therefore combines two key aspects of great interest to modern society: waste disposal and energy production from renewable sources.

Studies have shown that the organic fraction of municipal solid waste (OFMSW) can be used as fuel in single-chamber microbial fuel cells operating at room temperature, resulting in significant energy savings and reduced greenhouse gas emissions into the atmosphere.

Research has also highlighted the potential to combine MFC technology with the production of biohydrogen and methane from organic waste, while simultaneously reducing the content of organic matter and nutrients. If properly developed, microbial fuel cell technology could offer a viable alternative to traditional waste treatment systems.

The research on microbial fuel cells (MFCs) is carried out in collaboration with the University of Surrey (UK), focusing on the use of MFCs for the valorization of agro-industrial waste and the study of electroactive biofilms. BEST REUSE, promoted in partnership with the University of Surrey, focuses on the valorization of agro-industrial waste through bio-electrochemical systems, enabling the recovery of both energy and commercially valuable organic compounds.

The project was developed within the framework of the Horizon 2020 Program (H2020-WASTE-2014-2015 – Waste: A resource to recycle, reuse and recover raw materials) and involved 15 universities, companies, and research centers from eight different countries, including China and Israel.