Integrated CO₂ capture and utilization: a review of the synergistic effects of dual function materials

Recent years have witnessed rapid advancements in carbon capture, storage, and utilization (CCUS) technologies, which are key to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and improving sustainable development. Within CCUS technologies, adsorption, purification, compression, and utilization are all energy-intensive processes, which can limit their use in large-scale applications. To simplify these processes and thus improve their energy efficiency, integrated CO2 capture and utilization (ICCU) has been developed using dual functional materials (DFMs). Advanced DFMs that exhibit both a high CO2 adsorption capacity and high catalytic activity are key to the feasibility of ICCU systems. In this review, we critically assess the synergistic effects of the adsorbent, catalysts, and supports in different kinds of DFMs for ICCU. The material formulations, reaction conditions, and reaction mechanisms of the DFMs applied in ICCU systems based on methanation, dry reforming of methane, and the reverse water-gas shift reaction are discussed. The synergistic effects and interactions of DFM components are also emphasized and categorized based on their adsorbent components (i.e., Ca, Na, Mg, and other materials). The influence of the operating temperature and the interference of H2O, O-2, NOx, and SO2 with ICCU performance are also considered. Finally, challenges faced by DFM development are identified, and future perspectives are summarized.