Catalytic solvent regeneration for energy-efficient CO₂capture

CO2 emissions from industrial processes and their adverse implications on the climate is of major concern. Carbon capture and storage (CCS), especially using chemical-absorption-based processes, has been regarded as one of the most realistic pathways to curtail global warming and climate change. However, the energy-intensive nature of CO2 capture and therefore its expensive cost of operation has been regarded as the main barrier halting its widespread implementation among the portfolio of low-carbon energy technologies currently available. Recently, catalytic solvent regeneration has drawn significant attention as a new class of technology for energy-efficient CO2 capture with great potential for large-scale implementation. In this review, recent progress and developments associated with catalyst-aided solvent regeneration for low-temperature energy-efficient CO2 desorption is presented. A detailed discussion of heterogeneous acid-base catalyst is undertaken and the specific privileges, drawbacks, and challenges of each catalyst identified and commented upon. In keeping with the latest investigations, the promotion mechanism of catalytic CO2 desorption and the role of Lewis acids, Brønsted acids, and basic active sites are scrutinized. The performance of solid acid-base catalysts in different primary and blended amine solutions associated with their physicochemical properties is also reviewed. Finally, the status of catalytic solvent regeneration for post-combustion CO2 capture is comprehensively analyzed and a clear pathway for future research investigations is provided.