Abstract: A microbial electrochemical cell is described herein. The cell includes an anode electrode disposed in an anoxic environment below a water surface. The anode receives electrons from anaerobic decomposition of organic matter or other reduced compounds by microbes in sediment below the water surface. The cell also includes a cathode electrode disposed in an environment at a higher electrochemical potential than the anoxic environment. The cathode is electrically connected to the anode to receive the electrons from the anode. A reference electrode is disposed in the environment at the higher electrochemical potential than the anoxic environment. A potentiostat is electrically connected to each of the anode, the cathode and the reference electrode and is configured to receive electrons from the anode and control distribution of the electrons to the cathode based on a potential difference between the anode and the reference electrode. Methods of remediating aquaculture sediment are also described.

Abstract: Featured herein are oxygen reduction electrodes configured in an electrochemical system, such as a microbial fuel cell, comprising a cathode configured as a pleated sheet and an anode comprised of a conductive material.

Abstract: Disclosed is a high surface area electrode for use in a microbial fuel cell. In one embodiment the high surface area electrode has an electrode backing and villiated extensions attached to the backing. In one embodiment the villiated extensions and/or electrode backing are made of an electro conductive material such as, for example, graphite or graphite fibers. In one embodiment the electrode is an anode and the electrode backing is in the form of a mesh or woven structure. The electrodes offer superior removal of chemical oxygen demand (COD) and are thus useful in the remediation of wastewaters. The invention also provides microbial fuel cells that utilize the electrodes of the invention. In one embodiment the microbial fuel cells utilize an oxygen barrier and do not utilize a cation or anion or proton exchange membrane.