| abstract |
A method for controlling the activity of an electrochemical device ( 11 ) comprising a bioanode ( 3 ) and a biocathode ( 6 ) immersed in an electrolyte ( 10 A, 10 C) containing microorganisms, the anode compartment ( 8 ) and cathode compartment ( 9 ) being separated by at least one membrane ( 14 ), optionally a reference electrode, a difference in potential being applied between the bioanode ( 3 ) and the biocathode ( 6 ), or between the bioanode and the reference electrode, characterised in that the operation of the device is governed by a dual control: —a priority control of the difference in potential between the bioanode and the biocathode, or between the bioanode and the reference electrode, between a minimum limit value allowing the development of an electroactive biofilm at the bioanode and a maximum limit value lower than the oxidation potential of said biofilm, and—a secondary control, when the first control is in place, optimising the Faradaic efficiency of the biocathode. A device allowing said method to be carried out. |