Chemical and Biological Engineering ETDs

Publication Date

7-2-2011

Abstract

This research introduces the use of bucky' papers based on SWNTs as anode electrode materials for the oxidation of NADH and L-Malate oxidation by poly(methylengreen) and malate dehydrogenase respectively. SWNTs were used to create an electrode design consisting of high surface area-hierarchically ordered carbon nanomaterials with controlled surface chemistry. Additionally, this research introduces new cathodes designs based on buckeye and toray papers for air-breathing and liquid electrolyte modes. Buckeye and 0.11mm-thick toray papers are used to design the air-breathing cathode by immobilization of Laccase using a non-covalent linking agent. The liquid electrolyte cathode, designed to be applied in implantable devices, consists of 0.28 mm-thick toray paper as conductive material and Bilirrubin oxidase, the biocatalyst, immobilized silica-gel. The composite nanomaterials and the immobilization techniques utilized in this research would help as departing stage to engineer electrodes designs that meet the criteria required for optimum biofuel cells.'

Keywords

carbon nanotube. bucky paper. electrochemical deposition. chronoamperometry. Krebs cycle. NADH. L-malate dehydrogenase. poly(methylene green). FickΓÇÖs Law. Michaelis-Menten Kinetics. Multicopper Oxidases; Anodes--Materials., Cathodes--Materials., Nanocomposites (Materials), Microbial fuel cells--Design and construction.

Sponsors

AFOSR MURI Program in Fundamentals and Bioengineering of Enzymatic Fuel Cells

Document Type

Thesis

Language

English

Degree Name

Chemical Engineering

Level of Degree

Masters

Department Name

Chemical and Biological Engineering

First Committee Member (Chair)

Lau, Carolin

Second Committee Member

Chi, Eva

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