Oxalate degradation in a bioelectrochemical system: reactor performance and microbial community characterization

Bioresour Technol. 2013 Sep:143:147-53. doi: 10.1016/j.biortech.2013.05.116. Epub 2013 Jun 3.

Abstract

The aim of this work was to investigate the feasibility of using oxalate at the anode in a continuous reactor. Complete oxalate removal was observed, albeit at a maximum coulombic efficiency of 33.9±0.4%. At the cathode side, there was an increase in pH from 8 to 11 showing production of caustic. Analysis of the microbial community demonstrated a clear shift during reactor start-up, resulting in enrichment of microorganisms belonging to Bacteroidetes, Firmicutes, Mollicutes, and β and γ-Proteobacteria. Methane was produced throughout the experiment; Archaea belonging to the Methanosarcinacea, Methanomicrobiaceae and Methanosaetaceae were identified as key representatives.

Keywords: Bioelectrochemical system; Microbial fuel cell; Oxalate degradation; PCR–DGGE; qPCR.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Archaea / classification
  • Archaea / metabolism*
  • Bacteria / classification
  • Bacteria / metabolism*
  • Base Sequence
  • Bioreactors*
  • DNA Primers
  • Denaturing Gradient Gel Electrophoresis
  • Electrochemical Techniques / instrumentation*
  • Electrodes
  • Polymerase Chain Reaction
  • Species Specificity

Substances

  • DNA Primers