A review of biohydrogen production technology for application towards hydrogen fuel cells

The rapidly depleting fossil fuels, as well as the devastating effects of climate change, have propelled the search for a cleaner and sustainable source of energy. Hydrogen fuel cells generate electricity without the need for combustion, producing only water and heat in the process. To be considered sustainable and a carbon-neutral source of energy, the following conditions must be met: 1) the fuel cells must be fed with hydrogen-rich fuel from renewables; 2) hydrogen production rates must be financially viable; and 3) hydrogen generation costs must be competitive with other sources of hydrogen. This paper provides an overview of the various methods of hydrogen production via biochemical reactions (biohydrogen). It also discusses the challenges encountered in biohydrogen production and offers some solutions to overcome such. The paper ends with a discussion of the potential market for biohydrogen in fuel cells. Finally, this article highlights the potential of biohydrogen as an alternative source for clean hydrogen, while emphasizing the areas that require more intensive research to make the hydrogen economy a viable reality.