Carbon capture, utilization, and storage for sustainable construction: Insights into CO2 mixing, curing, and mineralization

Abstract

Given the substantial share of global CO₂ emissions attributable to construction materials, especially cement, there is rising interest in harnessing CO₂ to enhance cementitious composites and generate value‑added products. Strategic carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS) techniques including CO₂ mixing, curing, and mineralization can improve the macro‑mechanical performance and microstructure of cement‑based materials and enable the development of novel binders and construction materials. This article synthesizes current CCUS techniques applicable to construction materials, particularly concrete composites, and elaborates on key parameters affecting their effectiveness. The findings suggest that CO₂ mineralization is more effective than CO₂ mixing and curing, revealing its considerable potential for producing carbon-sink materials from construction and industrial by-products that support circularity through reuse and closing the loop in construction. However, this approach still faces challenges related to scale-up and economic feasibility. This study compares and identifies the optimal implementation conditions to maximize material performance and production efficiency, while also evaluating the economic and environmental impacts of the technologies, with a focus on advancing circularity in construction.