Plasma-based techniques for clean and efficient hydrogen generation: A comprehensive review

Ilanloo, Sima; Ahmadinouri, Fatemeh; Parviz, Parvin

doi:10.22060/aest.2026.25852.1006

Plasma-based techniques for clean and efficient hydrogen generation: A comprehensive review

Document Type : Review Article

Authors

Sima Ilanloo

Fatemeh Ahmadinouri

parvin parviz

Department of Energy Engineering and Physics, Amirkabir University of Technology (Tehran Polytechnic), Tehran, Iran.

10.22060/aest.2026.25852.1006

Abstract

Hydrogen is widely regarded as a promising clean energy carrier because of its high energy density and carbon-free utilization. This review presents a comprehensive overview of plasma-based techniques for hydrogen generation from water, methane, and other hydrocarbons, with emphasis on laser-induced plasma (LIP), spark discharge-assisted laser-induced plasma (SD-LIP), dielectric barrier discharge (DBD), corona discharge, microwave (MW) plasma, radio-frequency (RF) plasma, and glow/abnormal glow (GA/RGA) discharge systems. These methods provide highly reactive environments that promote molecular dissociation and hydrogen formation under relatively mild conditions. Particular attention is given to hybrid laser–spark approaches, which can enhance plasma density, prolong plasma lifetime, improve conversion efficiency, and reduce energy consumption. The review also compares the main plasma configurations in terms of operating principles, hydrogen yield, efficiency, and practical applicability. Overall, plasma-based routes show strong potential as flexible and sustainable alternatives for next-generation hydrogen generation.

Graphical Abstract