Abstract

Hydrogen is a promising fuel due to its high gravimetric energy density. Consequently, hydrogen has become a major research focus not only because of its energy potential, but also its use as a fuel which produces no carbon emissions. However, most current hydrogen production methods still rely on carbon intensive processes, such as methane steam reforming or other fossil fuel-based routes. Hydrogen is therefore commonly classified by color according to the associated carbon emissions, environmental impact and overall cleanliness of the production pathway. As a result, substantial research efforts are currently dedicated toward developing production from non-fossil fuel sources. Seawater, as an abundant resource, offers a promising alternative for hydrogen production through photo-and electro catalysis with the potential for near zero carbon emissions. In this mini review, key parameters affecting seawater electro catalysis, underlying process kinetics, and the various catalyst materials applied for seawater splitting are analyzed.