Biogalvanic cathodic protection of reinforced concrete structures in marine environments

•A novel autonomous bio-inspired cathodic protection system was developed.•A microbial fuel cell bioanode is used as the protective anode.•The concept is focused on reinforced concrete structures in marine environment.•Feasibility was tested by a preliminary numerical study (protection range 2–20 mA/m2)•Practical operation on a concrete specimen showed long term sustainability.