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Electricity generation and oxidoreductase potential during dye discoloration by laccase-producing Ganoderma gibbosum in fungal fuel cell

Summary

Scientists used a special fungus called Ganoderma gibbosum to clean contaminated water and generate electricity at the same time. The fungus produces an enzyme called laccase that breaks down textile dyes while the fuel cell converts the chemical energy into electrical power. This eco-friendly technology could help industries treat wastewater while producing clean energy, offering a sustainable alternative to traditional chemical treatment methods.

Background

Water contamination from industrial dyes and the need for sustainable energy production have motivated research into alternative treatment methods. Traditional physical and chemical techniques for dye wastewater treatment have limitations including high capital costs and complexity. Fungal fuel cells represent an emerging technology that can simultaneously treat dye-contaminated wastewater and generate bioelectricity.

Objective

To evaluate electricity generation and oxidoreductase enzyme potential during dye decolorization of Remazol Brilliant Blue R (RBBR) using laccase-producing Ganoderma gibbosum in a fungal fuel cell system. The study aimed to demonstrate eco-friendly wastewater treatment combined with bioenergy production.

Results

At 5 ppm dye concentration, maximum power density of 14.18 mW/m² and maximum current density of 35 mA/m² were achieved with peak laccase activity of 47.2 U/L and 90.5% dye decolorization. Decolorization efficiency decreased with increasing dye concentration, reaching 61.25% at 25 ppm. Maximum voltage of 810 mV was recorded on day 10, with stable operation maintained for 15 days.

Conclusion

G. gibbosum successfully produced laccase for RBBR dye degradation while generating electricity in a fungal fuel cell system, demonstrating the potential for industrial-scale application. The laccase enzyme proved effective for dye decolorization with minimal toxic byproducts, offering an eco-friendly alternative to chemical treatment methods. This fungal-based approach represents a viable green technology for simultaneous wastewater remediation and bioenergy production.
  • Published in:Microbial Cell Factories,
  • Study Type:Original Research,
  • Source: PMID: 38098010, DOI: 10.1186/s12934-023-02258-0
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