Advancements in CO2 Capture Technologies: A Review of Amine Absorption and Alternative Methods for Post-Combustion Integration

Abstract

Carbon capture technologies are poised to become one of the primary focuses regarding the achievement of net-zero emissions by the year 2050. In these technologies, particular attention is given to post-combustion CO₂ capture, which is more easily implemented at existing power stations and other industries. Aqueous amines presently lead in these technologies due to selectivity and existing experience. Problems regarding corrosion, decomposition, or higher energy requirements for regeneration prompt the search for advanced technologies. This review offers a thorough review of the major CO₂ capture technologies, namely, chemical absorption, solid sorbent adsorption, membrane separation, biological capture, and cryogenic separation. The relative merits and demerits of each technology are critically assessed in terms of energy efficiency, capture capacity, environmental concerns, scalability, and practicality. Recent developments in amine-based solvents and in novel materials such as metal–organic frameworks, mixed-matrix membranes, and hybrid cryogenic/membrane processes are reviewed in detail. In addition, the increasing use of artificial intelligence-assisted optimization and advanced computational simulations is mentioned as a revolutionary tool for improving process design, optimization, and scaling up of CO₂ capture processes.