Sustainable Electrocatalyst for PEM Water Electrolyzers

Water electrolysis represents a key technological advancement for the sustainable production of hydrogen by harnessing renewable electrical energy. The Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Water Electrolyzer (PEMWE) stands out for its superior performance and dynamic response in converting chemical energy into hydrogen. This functionality positions PEMWE as an ideal solution for meeting the intermittent nature of clean energy sources and the demands of the electrical grid over various periods and scales. The growing interest in PEMWE technology is driven by the pressing imperative to tackle the energy and environmental crises precipitated by the extensive reliance on fossil fuels. PEMWE faces challenges with slow reaction kinetics, leading to inefficient energy conversion. Enhancing charge and mass transfer through innovative electrocatalysis at the electrode-electrolyte interface is essential for boosting energy efficiency and ensuring the longevity of such technologies. Current research is aimed at creating sustainable electrocatalysts for critical reactions like oxygen evolution reaction (OER) and hydrogen evolution reaction (HER), which are essential for advancing PEMWE. This review examines the latest progress in developing sustainable electrocatalysts for large-scale PEMWE applications. We cover the state of electrocatalyst technology, the hurdles in creating sustainable options, new approaches in electrocatalysis, emerging materials, and their environmental and economic impacts. Future research directions to facilitate PEMWE’s large-scale application with improved efficiency, durability, and cost-effectiveness are also discussed.