Recent advances in carbon capture and CO 2 valorization for deep decarbonization of the cement sector

Abstract

Reducing emissions from the cement industry is essential to limiting global temperature rise below 1.5°C, as the sector accounts for approximately 7% of global CO 2 emissions. This paper reviews carbon capture and utilization as a promising decarbonization strategy for cement manufacturing by evaluating the technological readiness levels (TRLs), advantages, and limitations of carbon capture technologies, including amine scrubbing, oxy‐fuel combustion, calcium looping, direct air capture, and Low Emissions Intensity Lime and Cement (LEILAC). Among these, amine scrubbing, oxy‐fuel combustion, and calcium looping have demonstrated significant CO 2 capture potential. In contrast, LEILAC provides a high‐purity CO 2 stream but faces challenges in energy efficiency, process integration, and large‐scale deployment. Although these technologies are technically scalable, high‐energy penalties and operational costs remain significant barriers to widespread implementation. Moreover, the use of captured CO 2 in value‐added products, including fuels and chemicals, as well as for mineralization and enhanced oil recovery, offers significant opportunities to promote industrial sustainability. Studies have reported that CCUS technologies can achieve CO 2 emission reductions of 54% to 99%. It is anticipated that CCUS will contribute approximately 36% and 1370 Mt CO 2 emissions savings by 2050 to meet deep decarbonization and net‐zero goals. Future studies must focus on reducing capture costs by using renewable energy sources, AI, and process optimization, while advancing the TRL of emerging CCU techniques. Achieving net‐zero emissions in the cement industry will require large‐scale deployment of CCU technologies supported by sustained technological innovation, strategic investments, robust policy frameworks, and strong collaboration among industry, academia, and governments.