A Novel All-In-One Electrolysis Electrode And Bioreactor Enable Better Study Of Electrochemical Effects And Electricity-Aided Bioprocesses

An autoclavable All-in-One electrolysis electrode in a rod shape assembly is developed as a new tool for bioelectrochemical systems and electricity-aided bioprocesses. It can replace the classic two-chamber bioelectrochemical system for electrolysis reactions, be inserted into conventional bioreactors and is easily adaptable as electrocatalytic surface or generator of super-fine bubbles (H-2 and O-2) for bioconversion processes. Whereas the bioreactor itself functions as the working electrode chamber, a well-integrated inner counter electrode chamber enables water electrolysis without the normally encountered undesired ion-transfer effect. The efficiencies of the electrode are characterized and its advantages and usefulness compared to the classic H-Cell bioelectrochemical system (BES) are demonstrated with glycerol fermentations by Clostridium pasteurianum DSM 525.