Work

Revolutionizing bio-hydrogen production: smart integration of nanotechnology, microbial engineering, and circular waste valorisation

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: The escalating depletion of fossil fuel reserves and mounting environmental concerns from greenhouse gas emissions have intensified the global pursuit for sustainable energy alternatives. Bio-hydrogen production emerges as a transformative solution, offering carbon-neutral energy generation while simultaneously addressing organic waste management challenges. This comprehensive review examines the revolutionary integration of nanotechnology, advanced microbial engineering, and circular economy principles in bio-hydrogen production systems. A systematic analysis of diverse renewable feedstocks, including agricultural residues, municipal solid waste, microalgae, and industrial biomass, highlighting their potential for decentralized bio-hydrogen production. The review critically evaluates cutting-edge microbial innovations encompassing hybrid fermentation systems, extremophile consortia, and synthetic biology approaches utilizing CRISPR-Cas9 technology for enhanced hydrogen yields. Nanotechnology applications are extensively discussed, focusing on nano-metal catalysts, enzyme immobilization techniques, and plasmonic nanoparticles that significantly improve bioconversion efficiency and system stability. Advanced purification technologies, including mixed-matrix membranes and graphene-based systems, alongside innovative storage solutions using metal hydrides, are comprehensively assessed. The integration of bio-hydrogen into fuel cells and industrial applications demonstrates substantial potential for replacing fossil-based hydrogen. This review establishes bio-hydrogen as a cornerstone technology for achieving sustainable energy transitions while fostering circular bio-economy development.

Source: Bioresources and Bioprocessing

DOI: 10.1186/s40643-025-01001-4

Authors: Krishna Chaitanya Maturi, Siva Rama Krishna Madeti, Sanjana Sinha, Silvia Saikia, Abhishek Srivastava, Izharul Haq