Year: 2012
Type: article
Abstract: One novel means of biofuel production requires the reduction of nitrite ions to produce ammonia (which serves as an electron source for genetically-modified, carbon dioxide-fixing bacteria).The feasibility of this process depends on the performance of both the electrochemical reactor and a coupled bioreactor.We report on characterization of the electrochemical process involving nitrite reduction to ammonia in buffered electrolytes in the pH range between 6.0 and 8.0.A limiting current plateau was observed and determined to be due to flux of phosphate buffer (the primary source of protons) to the electrode surface.Importantly to the development of a sustainable process, current efficiencies of nitrite reduction to ammonia of 100% on both nickel and glassy carbon electrodes are possible.A divided flow-by porous electrode cell was designed as a proof of principle by coupling it to the bioreactor.It was observed that the overpotential of glassy carbon cathode decreased by ∼500 mV over 10 days which would correspond to 24% decrease in power requirements for the electrochemical reactor.
DOI: 10.1149/2.042301jes
Authors: Asli Sahin, Wan-Ting Lin, Wendell O. Khunjar, Kartik Chandran, Scott Banta, Alan C. West
Institution: Columbia University
Language: English
Subfield: Catalysis
Field: Chemical Engineering
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: bronze
OpenAlex ID: W1990492111