Fungifuels: Polyethylene Decomposition and Electricity Generation with Aspergillus ochraceopetaliformis in Microbial Fuel Cell Systems

Plastic pollution is an increasingly pressing environmental concern due to its persistence in ecosystems. To address this issue, this study evaluates polyethylene biodegradation and bioelectricity generation using Aspergillus ochraceopetaliformis in microbial fuel cells (MFCs). Single-chamber MFCs were designed (three) with carbon and zinc electrodes, where the fungus was cultivated in a nutrient-rich medium to enhance its metabolic activity. Parameters such as pH, power density, and FTIR spectra were monitored to assess plastic biodegradation. The results demonstrated a significant reduction in polyethylene mass and structure, along with a maximum generation of 0.921 V and 4.441 mA on day 26, with a power density of 0.148 mW/cm² and a current of 5.847 mA/cm². The optimal pH for fungal activity in the MFC was recorded at 7.059. Furthermore, FTIR analysis revealed a decrease in peak intensity at 1470 cm⁻¹ and 723 cm⁻¹, indicating structural modifications in the treated plastics. Furthermore, microbial fuel cells connected in series successfully powered an LED bulb, generating a maximum voltage of 2.78 V. These findings confirm the feasibility of using Aspergillus ochraceopetaliformis for biodegradation and bioelectricity generation, although practical applications require further optimization of system conditions and improvements in long-term stability. This research contributes to the development of biotechnological strategies for plastic waste management, sustainable integrating approaches with energy potential.