The electrons are then used by the microorganisms to reduce carbon dioxide to yield industrially relevant products.
[1] This process is the opposite to that employed in a microbial fuel cell, in which microorganisms transfer electrons from the oxidation of compounds to an anode to generate an electric current.
[2] The mechanism of MES is not well understood, but the potential products include alcohols and organic acids.
[3] MES can be combined with MEC in a single reaction vessel, where substrate consumed by the microorganisms provides a voltage potential that is lowered as the microbe ages.
[4] "MES has gained increasing attention as it promises to use renewable (electric) energy and biogenic feedstock for a bio-based economy.