An investigation of hybrid reactor for simultaneous hydrogen and electricity production

This study evaluates a novel hybrid reactor integrating microbial fuel cells, microbial electrolysis, and conventional electrolysis for efficient hydrogen production from renewable organic sources. Cow manure and glucose were used as substrates in a membraneless reactor. The hybrid reactor generated an electricity output of 0.62 V within 50 minutes, indicating efficient microbial activity. Hydrogen production from microbial electrolysis gradually surpassed that from conventional electrolysis, reaching 998 ppm within 90 minutes at low applied voltages (1.0V). This enhanced efficiency highlights the benefits of integrating biological and electrochemical mechanisms. Overall, the hybrid reactor demonstrates successful performance in converting organic waste into bioelectricity and biohydrogen, offering significant potential for simultaneous organic waste treatment and sustainable energy production.