The following dataset compiles the different data collections associated with the study described in the article "Towards the implementation of a more economical catalyst for hydrogen production in microbial electrolysis cells". These data provide visual support that facilitates interpretation through figures and graphical representations.
Figure 1 presents the current obtained for the different catalysts under varying applied potential ranges. Figure 2 shows the impedance data of the tested catalysts, represented as Nyquist plots. Figures 3, 4, S2, and S3 display scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images of the catalyst surfaces at different magnifications, allowing observation of the deposition of the various metals.
Figure 5 compares the current density over time for the different cells using the various catalysts, highlighting the points at which acetone is supplied to the system and subsequently consumed, resulting in corresponding increases and decreases in current density. Additionally, Figure S1 provides a photographic image of the experimental cells used in this study.
METHODOLOGICAL INFORMATION
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Description of methods used for collection-generation of data:
The cubic MEC was first introduced by Call and Logan. It consists of a 35 mL methacrylate cell (4.4 × 5 × 5 cm) with a glass cylinder (7.7 cm height, 2 cm diameter) hermetically sealed on top, connected to a 100 mL gas collection bag with a twist-type valve. The cell body was assembled using methacrylate side plates, O-rings, screws, and wing nuts to prevent leakage. The anode was a graphite fiber brush, while the cathode was made of carbon felt or carbon cloth, slightly modified with a catalytic layer. Electrodes were connected to a power supply and a 10 Ω external resistor to monitor current. The cells were filled with 35 mL of mineral medium containing sodium acetate (1.5 g·L⁻¹) and bubbled with nitrogen to remove dissolved oxygen. The medium included various nutrients and salts, with an initial pH of 7.5 and conductivity of 13 mS·cm⁻¹. All reagents were analytical grade.
Call, D.; Logan, B.E. Hydrogen Production in a Single Chamber Microbial Electrolysis Cell Lacking a Membrane. Environ Sci Technol 2008, 42, 3401–3406, doi:10.1021/es8001822.
H. Liu and, H.L.; Bruce E. Logan*, †,‡ Electricity Generation Using an Air-Cathode Single Chamber Microbial Fuel Cell in the Presence and Absence of a Proton Exchange Membrane. 2004, doi:10.1021/ES0499344.
Sánchez-Peña, P.; Rodriguez, J.; Montes, R.; Baeza, J.A.; Gabriel, D.; Baeza, M.; Guisasola, A. Less Is More: A Comprehensive Study on the Effects of the Number of Gas Diffusion Layers on Air–Cathode Microbial Fuel Cells. ChemElectroChem 2021, 8, 3416–3426, doi:10.1002/CELC.202100908.
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Methods for processing the data:
The data of LSV, EIS and current density were acquired using AddControl software programmed in LabWindows/CVI2021, and then processed with SigmaPlot software. Finally, transformed to *.ODS format by Excel.
We do not process the information from SEM images.
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Instrument- or software- specific information needed to interpret the data:
The AddControl software programmed in LabWindows/CVI2021 was used for process control and data storage.
Sigma Plot programme was used to plot the graphs.
Not applicable from SEM images.
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Instruments, calibration and standards information:
Electrochemical measurements (LSV, EIS and current density) were made by Gamry Instruments Interface 1010 potentiostat/galvanostat (model 25065). AddControl software programmed in LabWindows/CVI2021.
SEM measurements were carried out in a Merlin Zeiss microscope operated at 5 kV and with an EDX detector (SEM-EDX) analysis system and Jeol JSM 6010 (JEOL, Ltd, Tokyo, Japan)
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Environmental or experimental conditions:
Ambient temperature and pressure
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Quality-assurance procedures performed on the data:
Not applicable
; Ottone, Carminna