• Journal of the Korea Organic Resources Recycling Association
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• v.21 no.1
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• pp.39-44
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• 2013

This study evaluated the effect of fluid flow on the power density in a horizontal-flow microbial fuel cell (MFC). The maximum power densities in four types of flow induced by different channel types in the anode chamber were investigated. The fluid flow at each channel was analyzed using tracer tests. Results of polarization curves showed that the maximum power densities of case 1, 2, 3 and 4 were 95.7, 129.1, 190.9 and 114.2 mW/m2, respectively. Case 3 with a set of guide walls where flow had an S type-like shape showed the highest power density. Based on the Morrill Dispersion Index (MDI) value of case 4, microbial activity would be enhanced since the reactor allows even distribution of substrate but the overflow occurrence would not guarantee stable performance. Therefore, case 3 could be an effective reactor type for MFC because of high electricity generation and stable performance.