Question 1

What is the main aim of the project?

Accepted Answer

To enhance the performance of an existing planar-type prototype reactor for bioelectrochemical hydrogen production from industrial wastewater by applying a digital twin-based modelling approach.

Question 2

What are the key methodologies and experimental approaches being used?

Accepted Answer

Development of an integrated MET model combining computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and microbial growth based on thermodynamic fundamentals using COMSOL Multiphysics; iterative feedback loops between reactor performance data and 3D simulations to optimise reactor design.

Question 3

What specific hypothesis is being tested?

Accepted Answer

That modelling and simulation of flow regime, mass transfer, and ohmic losses can identify and overcome process limitations, leading to improved biological activity and reactor performance.

Question 4

What type(s) of culture or model systems will be used to test the hypothesis?

Accepted Answer

An existing planar-type pilot microbial electrolysis cell (MEC) reactor treating industrial wastewater.

Question 5

What are the expected outcomes of the research?

Accepted Answer

A comprehensive digital model of the system, improved reactor design, and more than 50% increase in reactor performance (current density, COD removal rate, and hydrogen production rate), along with general design recommendations for planar-type MET reactors.

Question 6

What are the main challenges or risks associated with the project?

Accepted Answer

Accurate integration of microbial thermodynamics with CFD modelling, validation of simulation results, and effective implementation of design improvements in the real system. In addition, high cathode density in bioelectrochemical reactors creates a trade-off: more surface area improves reactions but disrupts flow, causing boundary-layer resistance and stagnant zones. Solving this often requires mixing or recirculation, which adds energy costs and can compromise plug-flow performance.

Question 7

Who are the key collaborators involved?

Accepted Answer

HELMHOLTZ-ZENTRUM FUR UMWELTFORSCHUNG (UFZ) (https://www.ufz.de/)for modelling support using COMSOL to integrate microbial thermodynamics and mass transfer.

DC10

THE SUPERVISORS

THE CANDIDATE