Microbial Hydroponics: Circular Sustainable Electrobiosynthesis

Introduction

For the first time, Mi-Hy brings together Microbial Fuel Cell (MFC) technology and hydroponics, thereby introducing a prosthetic rhizosphere (an extended rhizosphere community) to the typically soil-less configuration of hydroponics systems.

System Functionality

The Mi-Hy system will:

1. Modulate nitrogen forms.
2. Optimize plant root microbiomes for nitrogen uptake.
3. Mobilize phosphorus, averting the need for chemical fertilizers.

This circular, sustainable platform turns carbon into biomass and reclaims nitrogen from wastewater streams.

Bioelectrochemical System

Linked through shared microbiomes, the bioelectricity generating Bioelectrochemical System (BES) Microbial Fuel Cell (MFC) platform is:

i) Optimized to generate electricity from wastewater at 1mW/1mL feedstock (setting a new benchmark for MFCs).
ii) Driving wavelength-specific LEDs to optimize photosynthesis.
iii) Capable of recovering useful biomolecules using adjacent MFCs to modulate the redox potential of a workhorse Microbial Electrolysis Cell (MEC) performing microbial electro synthesis (MES).

This novel development brings together MFCs and MECs. Since these share common microbial constituents, they can be technologically combined without the need for external, fossil-fuel-based energy sources.

Design and Engineering

To achieve this goal, Mi-Hy aims to design biofilms using metabolic engineering in wild type symbiotic strains.

Applications

This next-generation hydroponics system has near-future applications in agriculture and in the urban environment. It delivers a smart, decentralized, low power digital infrastructure with sustainable organic solutions, which are in line with the ambitions of the Missions Cities & Climate adaptation. This includes:

• Urban agriculture
• Precision gardening
• Wastewater treatments
• Energy generation
• Synthesis of high-value compounds (e.g., vitamins)

Collaboration and Future Vision

Mi-Hy will also invite designers and stakeholders from various sectors to co-create future applications. Ultimately, it anticipates and facilitates a healthier, sustainable, nature-based urban landscape.