Developments in the Microbial Desalination Cell Technology: A review

Abstract The Microbial Desalination Cell (MDC) is a technology proposed to either support or replace conventional desalination technologies. This technology allows for the simultaneous treatment of wastewater, electricity generation and desalination. These abilities of the MDC technology fit it into the water energy nexus matrix. Also considering the wastewater, electricity generation and desalination abilities of the MDC technology it can be stated that, it has the potential to contribute to the achievement of the sustainable developments goals six and seven. Since its introduction in 2009, the MDC technology has evolved quickly in designs and in uses but is faced with a number of problems too. This review discusses the major developments in the MDC technology considering what the MDC technology is about, its varied uses, the achievements of the technology and as well, the problems the technology is confronted with. Also, a future perspective on how the technology will develop is discussed.