Materials, Processes, and Integration Pathways Toward Scalable Carbon Capture

Abstract

Carbon capture underpins global decarbonization and net-zero targets. This review assesses post-combustion, pre-combustion, oxy-fuel, and direct air capture routes, comparing adsorption, absorption, cryogenic, and membrane technologies against thermodynamic constraints, intensification options, and sectoral integration. We spotlight sorbents from amine-functionalized chemisorbents to MOF/COF physisorbents, focusing on humid conditions and low CO₂ partial pressures. Methods combine bibliometric mapping, TRL profiling, and benchmarking of energy and cost. Results synthesize progress in structured contactors, hybrid solvent–sorbent concepts, and low-energy regeneration, with figures and tables tracking cost, material metrics, and deployment scenarios. We discuss scalability, environmental impacts, and coupling with renewables, CO₂ utilization, and storage networks. Carbon capture emerges as both a bridging and transformative technology whose acceleration hinges on targeted policy, public acceptance, and cross-disciplinary innovation