Algae cathode microbial fuel cells for cadmium removal with simultaneous electricity production using nickel foam/graphene electrode

•Chlorella was introduced into MFC for Cd(II) removal in the biocathode.•Simultaneous high power generation and metal removal efficiencies can be achieved.•NF-rGO enhanced power generation (36.4 mW m−2) and Cd(II) removal (115 g m−2).•NF-rGO improve the maximum tolerable concentrations of Cd(II) for algal biocathode.•Cadmium were removed mainly through hydroxide precipitation and biosorption.