Recent advances in hydrogen production through proton exchange membrane water electrolysis – a review

Abstract

Proton exchange membrane (PEM) water electrolysis is recognized as the most promising technology for the sustainable production of green hydrogen from water and intermittent renewable energy sources. Moreover, PEM water electrolysis has several benefits such as compact system design with high operating current density, high hydrogen purity, greater energy efficiency and rapid response when combined with renewable energy sources. However, the use of costly electrocatalysts and cell components leads to expensive and limited commercial applications. In this review, various water electrolysis technologies and their technical specifications including hydrogen production costs were briefly summarized from a commercial perspective. Furthermore, we have mainly focused on PEM water electrolysis including recent developments in cell components such as membranes, gas diffusion layers, bipolar plates, and electrocatalysts. Moreover, some of the most effective results also were described and the research gaps and their challenges for cost reduction and commercialization were identified. Furthermore, we concluded by outlining our thoughts and potential solutions for future research directions that should be pursued to develop inexpensive electrocatalysts and cell components for efficient production of green hydrogen. This review aims to provide possible directions and a road map for future research and development towards the development of inexpensive PEM electrolysers.