Nanomaterials and Hydrogen Production: A Comprehensive Review of Clean Energy Strategies, Costs, and Environmental Implications

An increasing demand for energy coupled with rising pollution levels is driving the search for environmentally clean alternative energy resources to replace fossil fuels. Hydrogen has emerged as a promising clean energy carrier and raw material for various applications. However, its environmental benefits depend on sustainable production methods. The rapid development of nanomaterials (NMs) has opened new avenues for the conversion and utilization of renewable energy (RE). NMs are becoming increasingly important in addressing challenges related to hydrogen (H₂) generation. This review provides an overview of current advancements in H₂ production from biomass via thermochemical (TC) and biological (BL) processes, including associated costs, and explores the applications of nanomaterials in these methods. Research indicates that biological hydrogen (BL-H₂) production remains costly. The challenges associated with the TC conversion process are examined, along with potential strategies for improvement. Finally, the technical and economic obstacles that must be overcome before hydrogen can be widely adopted as a fuel are discussed.