Research

Our MAIN work

Bioelectrochemistry is a multidisciplinary field at the intersection of electrochemistry and biophysical chemistry, focusing on electrophysiological phenomena such as cell electron-proton transport, cell membrane potentials, and electrode reactions of redox enzymes. Bioelectrochemical processes offer numerous advantages, including room temperature operation, biocompatibility, environmental safety, and relatively low costs compared to noble metal fuel cells. However, challenges such as low activity, sluggish electron transfer pathways, and poor stability remain. To enhance the efficiency of bioelectrochemical devices, one approach is to synthesize biocatalysts with diverse bonding mechanisms, such as adsorption, entrapment, and crosslinking, on the electrode surface. In our laboratory, our research is centered around the synthesis and characterization of biocatalysts designed to possess high conductivity and efficient electron transfer capabilities. Our goal is to develop novel biocatalysts that can significantly improve the efficiency and performance of biofuel cells, biosensors, biobatteries, and photo-bioelectrochemical cells, driving advancements in the field of bioelectrochemistry.

MAIN RESEARCH TOPICS

Microbial Fuel Cell (MFC) is an emerging bioelectrochemical technology that utilizes microorganisms as biocatalysts to convert organic materials into electricity. MFCs hold great promise as a sustainable and environmentally friendly approach for wastewater treatment and energy generation. While MFCs are still in the developmental stage, ranging from laboratory-scale to pilot plant applications, our research group focuses on advancing the performance of MFCs through modifications of electrodes, separator membranes, and system designs. Our research aims to enhance electron transfer efficiency, improve biocompatibility with microorganisms, and explore the potential of MFCs in industrial waste treatment and environmental biosensors. Through our interdisciplinary efforts, we strive to contribute to the scientific understanding and practical applications of MFCs for sustainable energy and environmental solutions.

Enzymatic Biofuel Cell (EBC) is a cutting-edge bioelectrochemical technology that harnesses the catalytic power of enzymes to convert organic resources into electrical energy. EBC holds immense potential for various applications, including waste treatment, medical devices, and military applications. In our research, we focus on optimizing the performance of EBC by modifying the electrode structure and separator membrane to enhance electron transport efficiency. Through these structural modifications, we aim to improve the overall performance and functionality of EBC, paving the way for its broader utilization in diverse fields. Our research endeavors contribute to the advancement of EBC as a promising and environmentally friendly technology for sustainable energy conversion and other practical applications.

Biosensors represent a class of electrochemical devices that have evolved in response to the growing global focus on environmental sustainability. Electrochemical biosensors operate on the principle of utilizing redox reactions triggered by substrate changes to generate electrical signals. As part of our research, we have developed enzyme and microbial-based biosensors, employing them as biocatalysts, and further modifying them with cost-effective and environmentally benign carbon-based electrodes. These modifications are aimed at enhancing the performance and sustainability of biosensors, thereby contributing to the advancement of this field for applications in environmental monitoring, healthcare, and other domains where rapid and sensitive detection of analytes is critical.

bIOBATTERY

Our research group is dedicated to advancing biobattery research with a specific focus on utilizing tropical fruit peel waste as a substrate or electrolyte in Zinc-Copper (Zn-Cu) biobattery systems. Tropical fruit peels, which are commonly discarded as waste, possess inherent electrochemical properties that make them suitable for biobattery applications. Through our studies, we investigate the potential of utilizing tropical fruit peels as a renewable and sustainable source of energy in Zn-Cu biobatteries, where fruit peel waste can serve as a substrate or electrolyte. Our research endeavors aim to explore the viability of employing tropical fruit peels in Zn-Cu biobattery systems, with the ultimate goal of developing eco-friendly and cost-effective solutions for energy production and waste utilization.

PHOTO-BIOELECTROCHEMICAL CELL

Our research group is actively engaged in advancing the field of photo-bioelectrochemical cells (PBECs) with a specific focus on utilizing organic dyes extracted from microalgae, fruits, or flowers as photocatalysts. PBECs are a type of bioelectrochemical cell that combine the principles of photosynthesis and electrochemistry to generate electricity. By harnessing the inherent properties of organic dyes derived from microalgae, fruits, or flowers, our research seeks to develop efficient and sustainable PBECs that can convert light energy into electrical energy. These organic dyes act as photocatalysts, absorbing light and facilitating charge transfer processes within the PBECs, thus driving the generation of electrical currents. Our research endeavors aim to explore the potential of utilizing organic dyes from microalgae, fruits, or flowers as a renewable and eco-friendly approach for enhancing the performance and efficiency of PBECs, with the goal of advancing the field of photo-bioelectrochemical energy conversion.