Cobalt-based molecular electrocatalyst-mediated green hydrogen generation: A potential pathway for decarbonising steel industry

Abstract

Amid the climate change crisis, researchers are investigating the transformative potential of green hydrogen produced by renewable energy electrolysis to decarbonize the steel sector, a significant contributor to global carbon emissions. It aims to lower the carbon footprint of the steel industry by showcasing green hydrogen's potential as a cleaner substitute for traditional fossil fuels in the production process. Despite its potential, issues such as high costs, restricted availability, and infrastructural alterations must be addressed. Cobalt-based synthetic catalysts, especially cobaloximes, are being considered as a key electrocatalytic component for hydrogen production via water-splitting. Cobaloximes, noted for their efficiency and stability in catalysing hydrogen evolution, have made considerable advances in the field of molecular catalysis. Recently, advanced immobilisation procedures have appreciably enhanced their overall catalytic output and application. This article discusses several electrolyser technologies, such as proton exchange membrane (PEM) and alkaline electrolysis, highlighting the benefits of multi-stacked electrolyser systems for boosting hydrogen generation efficiency. These encouraging results are vital for unravelling a durable catalytic material that can be scaled up without much financial stringency. In light of the global climate pledges, the document concludes that green hydrogen might provide 24 % of the world's energy needs by 2050, resulting in a considerable reduction in CO₂ emissions.