A study published in Frontiers of Chemical Science and Engineering (Vol. 19, Issue 10) by researchers from China University of Petroleum–Beijing and collaborators provides a detailed review of recent advancements in green hydrogen production technologies. The paper evaluates progress across water electrolysis pathways, examining improvements in materials, engineering applications, and ongoing challenges that must be overcome for wider industrial deployment.

Hydrogen is increasingly recognised as a clean and efficient secondary energy source with major potential to support global energy transition. Water electrolysis powered by renewable energy offers advantages including high hydrogen purity, environmental friendliness and strong operational flexibility. With strong national policy support and broad industrial prospects, the sector continues to gain momentum. The study categorises water electrolysis technologies into four types based on electrolyser diaphragm materials: alkaline water electrolysis (AWE), proton exchange membrane electrolysis (PEMWE), solid oxide electrolysis (SOEC) and anion exchange membrane electrolysis (AEMWE).

Strengths, Constraints and Application Scenarios

The review notes that AWE is currently the most mature technology, offering low cost and large-scale capability, though challenged by electrode corrosion and limited dynamic response. PEMWE provides high current density and rapid system responsiveness, yet is restricted by expensive membranes and precious metal catalyst requirements. SOEC achieves high efficiency under high-temperature operation and benefits from opportunities to utilise industrial waste heat, but faces stability and sealing issues that hinder commercialisation. AEMWE, which uses non-precious metal catalysts, has cost advantages but lags due to low ionic conductivity and insufficient membrane stability.

In engineering applications, AWE dominates large-scale hydrogen production today. PEMWE is better suited to distributed applications and integration with renewable energy. SOEC is currently in the demonstration phase with strong future potential, particularly in high-temperature industrial environments. AEMWE is progressing towards megawatt-level deployment and is seen as a promising route due to its adaptability and cost-reduction potential.

The study concludes that future research and development should prioritise improving efficiency, reducing system costs, enhancing long-term durability and strengthening integration with renewable energy sources to support the accelerating global shift toward green hydrogen.

Source: 

https://fuelcellsworks.com/2025/11/24/green-hydrogen/recent-progress-of-green-hydrogen-production-technology