ELECTROCHEMICAL TECHNOLOGIES FOR HYDROGEN PRODUCTION: A REVIEW

Abstract

Hydrogen has become a key player in energy generation due to its potential to decarbonize the energy sector by offering carbon-free fuel flexibility and high energy content. Various electrochemical technologies exist for hydrogen production, including alkaline electrolysis, anion exchange membrane electrolysis, proton exchange membrane electrolysis, solid oxide electrolysis, and bipolar membrane electrolysis. This review paper provides an overview of these technologies, addressing their different aspects, challenges, and potential advancements, albeit not exhaustively. The findings indicate that each electrochemical production process has its own set of advantages and disadvantages concerning greenhouse gas emissions, operational complexity, and performance characteristics. Generally, the benefits outweigh the drawbacks for each method. However, it is evident that relying on diminishing non-renewable fossil fuels for hydrogen production poses significant operational and environmental challenges.