Membraneless Electrolyzers for Low-Cost Hydrogen Production in a Renewable Energy Future

Abstract

Summary Although the economics of producing hydrogen from water electrolysis are currently dominated by the cost of electricity, electrolyzer capital costs will become much more important in a renewable energy future when very-low-cost electricity will be available for a small fraction of the day. Due to their potential for simple construction and high current densities, membraneless electrolyzers represent a promising approach to driving down capital costs to the levels required for water electrolysis to compete with steam methane reforming. This article highlights the challenges and opportunities for membraneless electrolyzers to become a disruptive technology in a renewable energy future.