CHAPTER I

INTRODUCTION
Microbial Fuel Cells are devices that use bacteria as the catalyst to oxidize organic and
inorganic matter and generate current. These bacteria can be used to catalyze the conversion of
organic matter into electricity. Unlike a battery, a fuel cell does not store energy. Instead, it
converts energy from one form to another and will continue to operate as long as a fuel is fed to
it. (Rowland, 2014)
The project entitled Design and Development of a Modified Microbial Fuel Cell aims to
utilize the use of animal manure as a renewable source of energy to reduce the dependency of the
user on power from the power generating companies which utilize fossil fuels. It was used for
lighting a small piggery.
The modified microbial fuel cell is a bio-electrochemical system that drives a current by
using electrogenic bacteria such as Shewanellaputrefaciens and Geobactersulfurreducens that
mimic bacterial interactions found in nature. The proponents used series parallel array in order to
utilize higher voltage from the project. The microbial fuel cell consisted of 300 individual fuel
cell, made of 3mm thick acrylic plastic sheets connected in series parallel array. Each fuel cell
was composed of 300g of animal waste. Two different conductors were penetrated in each cell
that established internal circuit: copper plate and galvanized lag. Each cell produced
approximately 2.0V of electricity. Three hundred cells produced a maximum voltage of 52.3V
and the voltage produced by each cell depended on the organic waste employed. These fuel cells
were directly connected to a charge controller and to the 12V battery, which would charge it. The
12V battery was connected to the inverter and could light up a 220V, 5W LED bulb.

Figure 1 Perspective view of the Microbial Fuel Cell

Figure 1 presents the perspective view of the Microbial Fuel Cell with all its parts put
together. The MFC has an electrical component placed atop the main body which contains the
toggle switch for the batteries switching system, power outlet for the lighting, voltmeter,
ammeter and charge controller.
OBJECTIVES
The main objective of this study is to be able to study the financial aspect that comes with
the design and development of a microbial fuel cell. Specifically the project sought to attain the
following objectives:
1. To present the over-all economic aspect of the project entitled, Design and Development of a
Modified Microbial Fuel Cell in terms of
1.1. Total Capital Expenditure
1.2. Annual Maintenance/ Operation Cost
1.3. Estimated Annual Income
1.4. Pay-out Period
1.5. Return of Investment
1.6. Break-Even Analysis
1.7. Cost-Benefit Analysis
2. To identify the most effective method of financing the project
3. To determine the limiting factors of the project through
3.1. Financial risk management
3.2. Socio-economic study

MARKET STUDY
LOCATION and DEMAND
The project was used to provide electricity for the lighting fixtures of a small piggery. It
could be used for other similar types of agricultural ventures which yield organic waste which
could be utilized as fuel for the project. Using this project would help lessen the cost of electricity
used in the maintenance and operation of an agricultural venture.
IMPORTANCE

The intention of the researchers in conducting this research is to provide additional

knowledge to the subject matter presented in the study. Pursuing the study will serve as future
references specifically to future researchers. This will also open opportunities and feasible ideas
in developing the project and expanding the probabilities of accessing clean, safe, and low-cost
electricity for everyone.
The significance of this research is laid on the facts from investigation if the organic
waste microbial fuel cells are suitable and feasible as an alternative source of energy in the
country; that is, an energy source that is cheap and renewable. This study stresses its importance
that may help forecast the protocols and set ups in the future when it comes to finding other ways
in generating electricity. This research will also explore the effects and consequences of this type
electric source in the larger society.
This study will significantly benefit everyone especially those who are in the off grid
region where electricity is not yet accessible. In line with environmental concerns, this study will
open opportunities for a clean and renewable energy promoted by the Renewable Act of 2007.
With the deteriorating environment the country has in this period, this study will be timely as a
conduct to aid in decreasing environmental damages due to power generation.
In summary, the comprehensiveness of the analysis of every detail in this study may add
for the betterment of life.
Looking things in specifically, this is also significant to the following:
The Country. Being left a step behind of todays technology, it will be a chance for the
country to find better solutions in line with the shortage of electricity. After the conduct of the
research, there follows an understanding of the real deal when it comes to the way on how
renewable source of energy can help not only the country but also the environment.
Batangas State University. Understanding principles and concepts behind power
generation through microbial fuel cell using organic waste will yield valuable information to
students of Batangas State University (BatStateU) especially to the EE, EnSE and ChE

Departments. With this exposure, students can use this study in future researches and inventions.
This project will also guarantee the school an effective visibility of the University logo that will
also serve as a directional guide.
Electrical Engineering Department. The study will be a great contribution to the
achievement of the department in the University. The department will be acknowledged for
producing excellent researches and studies. Concurrently, the department will also gain a high
prospect that will encourage aspiring students to enroll in the program.
Electrical Engineering Students. The study will be advantageous for electrical
engineering students of BatStateU by means of understanding topics related to power generation,
microorganism producing bacteria, and renewable energy sources. The proponents may gain
worldwide exposure and the potential for research collaborations in the future may be increased.
The Researchers. The experience itself in the conduct of the research will improve and
develop the researchers knowledge and skills in the field of electrical engineering. It will also be
an opportunity for them to contribute to the body of knowledge in their field.
Future Researchers.This study may serve as reference of future projects, homeworks, and other
intellectual ventures especially those that are related to the study of organic waste microbial fuel
cell. Moreover, the study will provide fundamental principles to researchers in the future with
respect to a related study. The consideration of the application of this study highlights some
avenues for future research.