Waste to Wealth: Electrochemical Innovations in Hydrogen Production From Industrial Wastewater

The increasing demand for energy and the environmental challenges posed by fossil fuel consumption prompts the exploration of clean and sustainable energy solutions. This review article focuses on the innovative approach of generating energy through the electrolysis of wastewater, which not only facilitates clean energy production but also aids in wastewater treatment. Significant advancements in electrooxidation processes for the sustainable production of hydrogen and other valuable chemicals are highlighted. This article specifically analyzes the techno-economic aspects of electrooxidation for small molecules, including alcohol, amine, hydrazine, iodine, and urea, within the framework of wastewater treatment. Cost estimations for hydrogen and value-added products derived from the oxidation reactions are presented, with production costs calculated at $6.37, $6.06, $2.68, $5.69, and $10.69 per kilogram of H₂, respectively. However, the costs associated with alcohol oxidation reactions and urea oxidation reactions are deemed unfeasible. An analysis of profitability reveals that the oxidation processes for iodine, hydrazine, and amine wastewater generate revenue profits of 28%, 16%, and 6%, respectively.