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Exploring the role of saline water splitting in sustainable energy solutions and hydrogen economy

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  • Shanbhag, Mahesh M.
  • Mishra, Shanu
  • Shetti, Nagaraj P.
  • Pollet, Bruno G.
  • Kalanur, Shankara S.

Abstract

The use of seawater for hydrogen production via electrolysis is a significant step toward a sustainable hydrogen economy. Over the past decade, research has highlighted the importance of seawater electrolysis (SWE) in future hydrogen infrastructure. This review emphasizes recent advancements in SWE technology that position hydrogen as a bio-inert energy carrier to support renewable energy integration for climate action and carbon neutrality. The key challenges in saline water splitting (SWS), such as seawater's corrosive effects on catalysts and the competing chlorine and oxygen evolution reactions that reduce efficiency, are critically examined. Advancements in electrocatalysis are summarized as a promising approach to developing efficient and corrosion-resistant catalysts for SWS. Catalysts with exceptional hydrogen evolution coupled with low chlorine evolution activities can significantly enhance the performance and economic potential. Significant challenges in SWS, including catalyst scaling and the presence of chloride ions are elaborated and recent developments to overcome these challenges are briefed along with positioning SWS as a promising and sustainable method for hydrogen production. By addressing the multifaceted technical and economic challenges, coupling SWS with industrial process and renewable energy sources could play a pivotal role in meeting future energy demands sustainably, thereby contributing to global efforts in combating climate change and promoting renewable energy solutions.

Suggested Citation

  • Shanbhag, Mahesh M. & Mishra, Shanu & Shetti, Nagaraj P. & Pollet, Bruno G. & Kalanur, Shankara S., 2025. "Exploring the role of saline water splitting in sustainable energy solutions and hydrogen economy," Applied Energy, Elsevier, vol. 389(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:appene:v:389:y:2025:i:c:s0306261925004635
    DOI: 10.1016/j.apenergy.2025.125733
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