Metal ferrite derivative chemical looping systems: a review towards a multiscale approach for technology readiness enabling clean energy conversion and carbon neutrality

Chemical looping technologies offer a promising pathway for clean energy production, addressing the urgent need for decarbonization in light of escalating global energy demands and climate change concerns. This review explores the metal ferrite oxygen carriers in chemical looping applications, emphasizing their versatility in handling diverse feedstocks—from gases like methane to solids like plastics—and their robust performance in terms of stability and efficiency. The ferrite derivative chemical looping reactions involve the transfer of lattice oxygen from the metal ferrites to the fuel, enhancing fuel conversion without direct emission of pollutants. The structural and functional advantages of ferrites, including their ability to regenerate and sustain repeated redox cycles, are highlighted. Innovations in ferrite-based chemical looping, from small-scale laboratory setups to pilot-scale installations, demonstrate significant advancements in achieving high energy–exergy efficiencies with minimal ecological impact. The review also identifies ongoing challenges, such as the stability and effectiveness of metal ferrite oxygen carriers, suggesting improvements through material engineering and process optimization. This work aims to deepen understanding of ferrite oxygen carriers and propel forward their application in scalable, commercially viable clean energy solutions.