Unlocking the potential of electrolytic hydrogen production: A holistic review of electrolyzer technologies, catalyst innovations, and pathways to sustainable efficiency

Hydrogen has emerged as an integral clean energy carrier in the global shift to sustainable energy systems. Considering the technique has the potential to decarbonize multiple sectors, electrolytic hydrogen generation has attracted a significant attraction among hydrogen production techniques. This article offers an in-depth investigation of electrolyzer technologies, highlighting their benefits, disadvantages, and working principles. These technologies include solid oxide, alkaline, and proton exchange membrane (PEM) electrolyzers. In order to improve performance and durability, contemporary advances in catalyst engineering are critically assessed, emphasizing breakthroughs in electrocatalyst materials for hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). Furthermore, methods for enhancing system versatility and effectiveness are examined, such as incorporating renewable energy sources and developing high-temperature proton exchange membranes. Potential solutions to these obstacles are examined, along with issues like cost, sustainability, and energy efficiency. In order to completely realize the promise of electrolytic hydrogen generation, this review attempts to bridge technological insights with environmental considerations, providing a roadmap for future research and real-world applications in meeting global energy goals. • Analyses hydrogen production mechanisms and performance of PEM, AEM, alkaline, and solid oxide electrolyzers. • Accuracy inspection and catalyst engineering are evaluated to increase reaction kinetics and durability. • Highlights breakthroughs in catalytic structures including single-atom catalysts and MXene-based catalysts. • Correlates structural, kinetic parameters significant for enhancing hydrogen productivity and energy efficiency. • Techno-economic and life-cycle assessments are evaluated to establish cost, sustainability, and hydrogen viability metrics.