Concentration Studies and Biocompatibility of Mediated Glucose Biofuel Cell Anodes with Immobilized Glucose Dehydrogenase
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ABSTRACT:Glucose/oxygen enzymatic biofuel cells produce electrical current by oxidizing glucose using biological catalysts encapsulated within a polymer. Glucose concentration effects on power density were determined using electroanalytical techniques. Biocompatibility of such devices was also encompassed. Glucose concentrations were set at 3, 5 and 8mM mixed with nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) in pH 7.4 phosphate buffer. Mediated electron transfer was employed using poly(methylene green) which was electropolymerized directly onto the electrode. Tetrabutylammonium bromide (TBAB) modified Nafion® and deacylated and non-deacylated butyl modified chitosan polymers immobilized glucose dehydrogenase (GDH). Peak power and current densities were found using linear sweep voltammetry in triplicate for each polymer and concentration. Electrodes were tested in a bacteria/fuel solution for three days at constant potential with any sharp decrease in current indicating biofouling. Further analysis was done using a live/dead fluorescence assay. Immobilized GDH was cast in a bacteria/fuel suspension. SYTO 9 and propidium iodine fluorescent nucleic acid stains were used to differentiate living from dead bacteria under a fluorescent microscope. Living bacteria were used to conclude biocompatibility of the encapsulation polymer. Future work will consist of biocompatibility testing with different bacteria and studies of other polymers. |
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