From Formation to Failure: The Role of Hydrogen Peroxide in Proton Exchange Membrane Technologies

Hydrogen peroxide is a catalytic byproduct in proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) and proton exchange membrane water electrolyzers (PEMWEs). It may be produced as a side product of the electrochemical processes occurring at the cathode in PEMFCs, or at the anode in PEMWEs, or it may be produced due to gas crossover through either catalytic chemical or electrocatalytic processes. The challenge posed by H₂O₂ is its catalytic decomposition into highly reactive hydroxyl and peroxyl radicals, which trigger cascading degradation of critical components. This degradation directly compromises device efficiency and shortens the lifespan, representing a limiting factor in the durability of PEMFCs and PEMWEs. However, existing methods for detecting and quantifying in situ H₂O₂ generation are limited in their ability to accurately reflect real operating conditions (e.g., high current densities, mixed reactant environments), hindering a complete understanding of its dynamic (electro)-catalytic formation and impact. To address these gaps and advance the performance of hydrogen-based energy technologies, a comprehensive analysis of H₂O₂ (electro)-catalytic generation mechanisms, detrimental effects, and catalytic mitigation strategies is essential. In this work, we systematically review recent progress in H₂O₂ research for PEMFCs and PEMWEs, focusing on (1) underlying H₂O₂ (electro)-catalytic formation mechanisms, (2) the role of gas crossover in (electro)-catalytic H₂O₂ formation, (3) current detection techniques (and their limitations), and (4) emerging catalytic strategies for suppressing damage due to H₂O₂. This review highlights the need for improved in situ detection tools and targeted suppression approaches to enhance the reliability and longevity of PEMFCs and PEMWEsimportant technologies for hydrogen-based energy systems.