Desempeño de celdas de combustible microbianas bentonicas con sedimentos lacustres de la laguna de la hacienda san isidro del cantón Rumiñahui parroquia Sangolquí

Abstract

This research focused on benthic microbial fuel cells (CCMBs), an emerging technology for generating electrical power through the microbial oxidation of organic matter. Although these CCMBs have great potential for wastewater treatment and renewable energy generation, they have yet to be studied in the country. This research aimed to evaluate the performance of benthic CCMBs using different microorganisms and sediments from Laguna de la Hacienda San Isidro. It sought to determine its capacity to produce electricity and efficiently treat wastewater. The tests were carried out in the Biotechnology Laboratory of the Faculty of Sciences; the CCMBs were assembled, sterilizing the cells with an autoclave and avidina the presence of unwanted microorganisms with a laminar flow chamber. The sediment samples and inoculations were treated with specific bacteria, such as Bacillus sp and Acinetobacter Olivares, and autochthonous microorganisms. Subsequently, the CCMBs were monitored for 22 days, recording voltage data every 60 seconds using a data acquisition system. Physical, chemical and microbiological parameters were analyzed, obtaining good results in removing organic matter and confirming the strains' purity. Regarding the voltage production, variable values were obtained in the different cells, highlighting the results of Bacillus A (0.32V), Bacillus B (0.37V), Acit A (0.41 V) and Acit B (0,28V). In conclusion, this research demonstrated the potential of benthic CCMBs to generate electricity and treat wastewater efficiently. These findings support its viability and applicability in the Hacienda San Isidro Lagoon. This study lays the foundations for future research and applications in renewable energy generation and sustainable wastewater treatment.