Advancements in Electrode Development for Water Electrolysis: From Support Electrodes to Self‐Supported Electrodes

Hydrogen is emerging as a pivotal energy carrier for the industrial, transportation, and power sectors due to its high energy density and potential for decarbonization. Water electrolysis is a promising, emission‐free method for hydrogen production, with various electrolyzer technologies—alkaline water electrolysis (AWE), proton exchange membrane electrolysis (PEME), and anion exchange membrane electrolysis (AEME)—in active development. This review critically analyzes the advancements in electrode materials, focusing on the transition from support‐based to self‐supported electrodes (SSEs), which offer enhanced performance and stability under high current densities. The review emphasizes the critical shift from traditional supporting electrodes to self‐supported electrodes (SSEs), which provide enhanced mechanical stability, reduce ohmic resistance, and improve overall performance at high current densities. PEM electrolyzers, for instance, generate 4.0 A/cm2 at 2.36 V, achieving 70%–80% energy efficiency, while AEM electrolyzers perform at the same current density but at a lower voltage of 1.9 V. SSEs, such as Ru@Cu‐TM cathodes, have exhibited superior performance, delivering current densities of 1.0 A/cm2 at 1.69 V and maintaining stability over prolonged operational periods. While SSEs eliminate the limitations of traditional electrodes—such as catalyst peeling and binder instability—further research is needed to optimize their mechanical properties and scalability. Integrating advanced SSEs can significantly lower hydrogen production costs, with estimates as low as US$2.09/kg H2, positioning them as a pivotal solution for sustainable energy. This review provides valuable insights into the future of SSE‐based electrolyzers and their role in accelerating the global transition to green hydrogen. This article is categorized under: Emerging Technologies > Hydrogen and Fuel Cells