Comparative study of direct solid-gas carbonation and direct aqueous carbonation for carbon capture and storage

Abstract

Abstract Carbon dioxide (CO2) is a significant contributor to global warming and environmental issues, necessitating the development of practical storage solutions. As an alternative to CO2 storage in subsurface formations, mineral carbonation, which offers long-term CO2 storage and advantages like thermodynamics and energy economy, is gaining popularity. Also, the possible repurposing of carbonated solid waste in the building and construction industry contributes to the reduction of CO2. However, large-scale implementation of natural mineral carbonation remains a challenge. This study investigates the comparative advantages and disadvantages of direct solid-gas and direct aqueous carbonation, two carbon capture and storage (CCS) methods for combating atmospheric CO2 emissions. The research focuses on reaction kinetics, capture efficiency, recovery efficiency, leakage security, and cost-effectiveness. Both methods have the potential to capture CO2 efficiently, but they differ in their effectiveness and feasibility. Direct solid-gas carbonation exhibits higher reaction rates and capture efficiency, while direct aqueous carbonation has lower energy requirements and is easier to implement at ambient temperature and pressure. Further research is essential to fully understand the comparative merits and drawbacks of direct solid-gas and aqueous carbonation and devise strategies to minimize their environmental impact. Furthermore, to ensure economic feasibility, future research should focus on lowering CO2 sequestration costs, increasing the scale of captured CO2 usage in industrial processes, and developing a circular economy by transforming captured CO2 into valuable metal carbonates.