A Systematic Analysis of Carbon Capture Technologies: Bridging the Gap Between Theory and Application

Abstract

The increasing concentrations of greenhouse gases, especially carbon dioxide (CO₂), have become a major factor influencing global warming and climate change. As the international community enhances efforts to achieve carbon neutrality in the upcoming decades, carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS) technologies have gained prominence as a key strategy for reducing CO₂ emissions from industrial and energy sectors. This review comprehensively examines the current state of development, emerging research trends, technological obstacles, and innovative approaches in the CCUS field. Among the various CO₂ capture techniques, solvent absorption—particularly through amine-based and ionic liquid solvents—remains the most advanced and commonly utilized method. Ionic liquids present significant potential due to their adaptable molecular structures and lower energy requirements. In solid adsorption, the surface modification of metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) has shown considerable CO₂ adsorption capacity. Moreover, the creation of hybrid capture systems that combine ionic liquids, membranes, and nanomaterials has indicated promise in lowering energy expenses and enhancing efficiency.

The transportation of CO₂, mainly through pipelines, must take into account temperature, pressure, and impurity levels, as these variables affect phase behavior and transport safety. Utilization methods, including enhanced oil and gas recovery, coalbed methane displacement, and the conversion into value-added chemicals—particularly methanol utilizing copper-based catalysts, are also examined. The merging of electrocatalysis with renewable energy is recognized as a future pathway for effective CO₂ conversion. Geological storage, especially in deep saline aquifers, is viewed as the most dependable long-term solution, although concerns regarding reservoir stability and possible leakage remain. Monitoring technologies alongside risk assessments are critical for maintaining environmental safety.