Implementing carbon capture technologies and strategies in the cement industry: A complete review

Odor, Godwin Ekunke and Dirisu, Christian Davison and Omekawum, Nicodemus Chidera and Adejumobi, Ademayowa Isaac and Olorunfemi, Victory Olamide and Ajayi, Abiola Olufemi (2025) Implementing carbon capture technologies and strategies in the cement industry: A complete review. World Journal of Advanced Engineering Technology and Sciences, 16 (1). pp. 152-170. ISSN 2582-8266

The cement industry is one of the main industrial sources of CO₂ emissions globally, it accounted for approximately between 7-8% of total fossil fuel-related CO2 emissions. There are two carbon-intensive processes in the cement manufacturing: First is Clinker production, the decomposition of limestone into lime. This process is called calcination and is termed process emission, this represents 60%, and the second is Fuel combustion process, the burning of fossil fuel to obtain high temperatures of approximately 1450 ℃ required in the kiln. This accounted for 40% of total CO2 emissions from cement production, it is termed combustion emission. Decarbonization of cement industry is a necessity because of the global net-zero emissions target of 2050. This review comprehensively examines current and emerging Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS) technologies in this sector. Post-combustion capture is retrofittable, while calcium looping and oxy-fuel combustion indicated high capture efficiency and compatibility with cement chemistry. The LEILAC is the breakthrough process, producing pure CO₂ without flue-gas contamination. Though, high energy penalties, process complexity, integration challenges linger, and cost of retrofitting. Utilization methods such as mineral carbonation, CO₂ curing in concrete, and enhanced oil recovery offer roadmaps to long-term or value-added CO₂ usage. For permanent sequestration, storage in geological depleted oil fields and saline aquifers is key. Highlighted in this review is the need for all-inclusive integration, economic policy, and digital innovations with AI-driven monitoring and the use of alternative fuels like biomass. Urgent scale-up of CCUS technologies is essential to achieving the 2030-2050 climate targets. infrastructure Investment, Cross-sector collaboration, and supportive regulations are vital for transitioning to a low-carbon and climate-resilient cement industry.