Classification of nanomaterials and nanocomposites for anode material

Microorganisms can convert chemical energy in organic matters to electricity, hydrogen energy, or other useful products in bioelectrochemical systems (BES). Anode as the habitat of microorganisms plays a key role for the BES performance. Traditional carbon materials have been widely used in BES because of the excellent biocompatibility, electrical conductivity, chemical stability, and low cost. However, the low specific surface area and accessible active sites, as well as the hydrophobic property make them to be unideal anodic materials. Nanomaterials and nanocomposites can overcome the shortages of traditional carbon materials by providing special nanostructure and/or synergistic effects between components. In this chapter, carbon nanotubes, graphene and graphene oxide, transition metal and transition metal oxide, conductive polymers, etc., nanomaterials and nanocomposites modified anodes are summarized. Moreover, nanostructure or nanomaterials endowed novel methods that can improve anodic performances are also included. At last, further promising pathways for the future research are discussed.