Path of carbon dioxide capture technologies: An overview

Abstract

Global warming and climate change is a critical issue worldwide. Carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions from human activities are considered to be one of the major pollutants among all the anthropogenic greenhouse gases (GHGs) contributing to global warming. The total carbon dioxide emissions can be reduced either by efficient use of low carbon fuels and also by using hydrogen and renewable energy systems and also by employing efficient carbon capture technologies. Among the aforesaid three approaches, carbon dioxide capture and storage is the most promising approach. There are literally around 50–60 different ways of carbon dioxide capture technologies available as from traditional approaches like physical absorption, chemical absorption, mixed solvents, and membrane based absorption to modern methodologies like cryogenic separation, gas hydrates, advanced membrane, mineral carbonation, biological fixation, direct air capture and storage. This review paper tries to address all the key available carbon capture technologies from lab-scale prototypes to commercial practices. In addition, this article attempts to provide a clear introduction and cumulative comparison of all the carbon dioxide capture technologies.