A Critical Review of China's Hydrogen Supply Chain and Equipment

China’s dual-carbon goals have positioned hydrogen as a central pillar of its energy transition. This review examines the recent development of China’s hydrogen supply chain, with particular focus on manufacturing technologies for alkaline electrolysers, high-pressure cylinders, and diaphragm compressors. In 2024, China produced 36.5 million tons of hydrogen, of which 77 % was grey and only 1 % derived from electrolysis. Storage and transportation account for nearly 30 % of end-use costs, while reliance on imported compressors increases refuelling station expenses by approximately 40 %. We identify key bottlenecks, including limited electrolyser efficiency, the high cost of carbon fibres for Type III/IV cylinders, and insufficient domestic capacity for highreliability compressors. To address these challenges, targeted advances are proposed: membrane materials with engineered hydrophilicity, advanced surface modifications, and hydrophilic inhibitors; liner design incorporating grooved-liner braided layers with double-fibre configurations; and a three-layer diaphragm compressor architecture. By consolidating fragmented studies, this review provides the integrated manufacturing perspective on China’s hydrogen supply chain, offering both scientific insights and practical guidance for accelerating costeffective, large-scale, low-carbon hydrogen deployment.