Build a Microbial Fuel Cell: Wiring

When building a microbial fuel cell, there are a lot of things that you will have to keep in mind. You will find that the more that you know about the wiring aspect fit; the easier it will be for you. The wiring of a microbial fuel cell is by far the most difficult part of the job. However, if you know what you are getting yourself into before you begin, the job is made much easier. Make sure that you have at least a basic understanding of how the wiring works before you begin work on these types of fuel cells yourself. Working on one of these without experience could be very dangerous.

Step 1 - Assemble the Electrode

Nearly all of the wiring aspects of a microbial fuel cell are assembling the electrodes. This is something that can be done with just a few tools and a little bit of work. Make sure that you have all of the tools ready before you begin to prevent having to stop and start too frequently.

Step 2 - Connect Copper Wire

You will need to get a carbon cloth. The carbon cloth will be used to connect the copper wire. Make sure that it is properly connected before you move on to the next step.

Step 3 - Use Epoxy

Epoxy will be to use the wire fastened to your carbon cloth. This is necessary so that you will be able to protect your fuel from any erosion. Make sure that you read the instructions for the epoxy carefully and use it only as directed. Avoiding contact with skin and hands is recommended with any type of epoxy that you use.

Step 4 - Check a Multimeter

In order to properly test your electrodes, you will need to get a good multimeter. A multimeter will be able to give you a reading to help you understand if the electrodes are where they should be number wise. Whenever you are testing out the multimeter, you will need to make sure that there is some resistance between the end of the wire that is the opposite part of the point on the carbon cloth.

Step 5 - Understand Anode

When you are working with anode, you will need to make sure that you have your bottle lid out. A hole will need to be made just big enough where a wire will be able to pass through the lid. The lid will then need to be properly sealed with the epoxy. Whenever you are doing this with your cathode chamber, you will not need to have a lid. However, if you wish to add one you can.

Step 6 - Finish

Once you have finished the wiring aspect of your job, you will find that the rest will come easily to you. Make sure that if at any point you have issues with the wiring, you consult someone that has experience.