Enzymatic and microbial biofuel cells: current developments and future directions

Abstract Biofuel cells involving enzymes and whole cells of microorganisms are gaining interest with the increasing need for self-powered devices. Their nontoxic, pollution-free energy conversion technology has received tremendous attention in the last two decades, evidenced by the existing literature on this field. There are also various reviews explaining the developments of microbial fuel cells. Biofuel cells can convert a wide range of substrates from sustainable sources to electrical power and could have a promising prospect of contributing to future energy requirements. However, this technology needs steady exploration to lead it toward technology readiness. In this chapter, we focus on the recent developments in the area of biofuel cells with respect to enzymatic and microbial fuel cells, along with their future aspects leading to develop a promising technology for mankind.