The use of platinum-free (Pt) cathode electrocatalysts for oxygen reduction reactions (ORRs) has been significantly studied over the past decade, improving slow reaction mechanisms. For many significant energy conversion and storage technologies, including fuel cells and metal–air batteries, the ORR is a crucial process. These have motivated the development of highly active and long-lasting platinum-free electrocatalysts, which cost less than proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs). Researchers have identified a novel, non-precious carbon-based electrocatalyst material as the most effective substitute for platinum (Pt) electrocatalysts. Rich sources, outstanding electrical conductivity, adaptable molecular structures, and environmental compatibility are just a few of its benefits. Additionally, the increased surface area and the simplicity of regulating its structure can significantly improve the electrocatalyst’s reactive sites and mass transport. Other benefits include the use of heteroatoms and single or multiple metal atoms, which are capable of acting as extremely effective ORR electrocatalysts. The rapid innovations in non-precious carbon-based nanomaterials in the ORR electrocatalyst field are the main topics of this review. As a result, this review provides an overview of the basic ORR reaction and the mechanism of the active sites in non-precious carbon-based electrocatalysts. Further analysis of the development, performance, and evaluation of these systems is provided in more detail. Furthermore, the significance of doping is highlighted and discussed, which shows how researchers can enhance the properties of electrocatalysts. Finally, this review discusses the existing challenges and expectations for the development of highly efficient and inexpensive electrocatalysts that are linked to crucial technologies in this expanding field.

Proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) technology is vital for a cleaner and more sustainable future, offering high efficiency, quiet operation, fuel flexibility, and zero‐emission energy production with versatile applications. The drawbacks of PEMFC include its high cost, susceptibility to degradation, and challenges in scaling up production for commercial use. The gas diffusion layer (GDL), the catalyst layer (CL), and the polymer electrolyte are all very important parts of fuel cell technology. Through the optimization of these components, researchers may strive to develop fuel cells that are more efficient, cost‐effective, durable, and high‐performing, therefore enabling the provision of clean and sustainable energy. In this article, we have reviewed the various components of GDL, CL, and polymer electrolyte materials and their impact on the performance of PEMFC. The various characteristics of the GDL such as porosity, hydrophobic/hydrophilic, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), and carbon materials, are fully discussed in this review article. These topics also cover the CL’s properties, including the catalyst, carbon support, ionomer, and solvent. Explore the different polymer electrolytes that are based on aliphatic Nafion and aromatic hydrocarbons‐based membrane. Finally, this review paper gives suggestions for the way forward in regard to creating electrodes and electrolytes for PEMFCs that are cost‐effective, efficient, and durable.