Recent Advances in Functional Energy Materials for Microbial Fuel Cells: Progress, Challenges, and Future Perspectives

Abstract

Microbial fuel cells (MFCs) are a promising sustainable technology for addressing global energy shortages and environmental pollution, attracting increasing research interest in recent years. These systems enable the direct conversion of chemical energy from wastewater and organic waste into electricity through microbial metabolism. The overall performance of MFCs is primarily governed by the efficiency of key functional components, including the anodes, cathodes, and separators or membranes. Accordingly, extensive research has focused on development and optimisation of advanced functional energy materials to enhance electrochemical performance, durability, and cost-effectiveness. This review presents a comprehensive analysis of recent progress in the design and modification of functional materials for MFCs. Key advancements include the engineering of high-performance anode materials to improve microbial adhesion and extracellular electron transfer; the fabrication of cost-effective, high-selectivity membranes including ion-exchange membranes, porous membranes, composite membranes, and polymer membranes; and the optimization of cathode catalysts to reduce overpotential and improve electrocatalytic efficiency for the oxygen reduction reaction, offering viable alternatives to conventional platinum-based catalysts. Furthermore, this review discusses current challenges associated with the development of functional energy materials for MFC applications and outlines future research directions aimed at enhancing the scalability, long-term stability, and practical feasibility of MFC technology.