Science Buddies: "Ask an Expert"

Hi,
I am doing a project that Requires building an MFC. After I'm done with the project how should I dispose of them and in what manner?
Thanks

Hi jaw20,

It depends what is in your particular microbial fuel cell. I don't know the regulations in your particular area, so you may need to look into those yourself. Are you primarily concerned with killing the bacteria in your fuel cell? Or is there some other part of the fuel cell you are concerned about? If you are worried about the bacteria, this website has directions for sterilizing soils: http://www.colostate.edu/Depts/CoopExt/ ... terile.htm.

I am Building an mfc that uses benthic mud from a lower order stream.

Hi jaw20,

I suggest using one of the methods described in the link I gave in my previous post - sterilize the soil, and then throw it away with regular garbage.