Advances in green hydrogen production through alkaline water electrolysis: A comprehensive review

The global pursuit of sustainable energy solutions has led to an increased interest in green hydrogen as a significant contributor to the transition towards a low-carbon economy. This comprehensive analysis delves into the progress made in green hydrogen production using alkaline water electrolysis, shedding light on the fundamental principles, materials, design, operational conditions, and integration with renewable energy sources. The paper critically evaluates the economic and environmental aspects, providing valuable insights into the challenges, future prospects, and real-world applications. The importance of green hydrogen as a clean energy carrier is emphasized in the context of mitigating climate change and achieving energy independence. The paper outlines various methods for hydrogen production, with a focus on alkaline water electrolysis, highlighting its role in sustainable hydrogen generation. The structure of the review paper is well-detailed, guiding the reader through a systematic exploration of key aspects related to green hydrogen production. The fundamentals of alkaline water electrolysis are explained in detail, covering the basic principles, reactions at electrodes, components, working mechanisms, efficiency calculations, and existing challenges. An in-depth examination of materials and electrodes is presented, showcasing recent innovations that enhance performance. Electrolysers design and system configurations are discussed, incorporating recent developments aimed at improving efficiency and scalability. The paper explores operating conditions and optimization strategies, emphasizing the impact of temperature, pressure, and current density on electrolysis efficiency. The integration of renewable energy sources, such as wind and solar power, with alkaline water electrolysis is analyzed, addressing both the benefits and challenges. The economic feasibility of green hydrogen production and its environmental impacts, including life cycle assessments and carbon footprint, are meticulously examined. The paper concludes with an overview of current challenges and limitations, ongoing research insights, and future prospects for alkaline water electrolysis technology. Real-world case studies are presented to showcase the practical applications of this technology in industries, transportation, and energy storage. In summary, this review highlights the pivotal role of alkaline water electrolysis in advancing green hydrogen production, offering a promising pathway towards a sustainable and decarbonized energy future.