Review of Evolutionary Trends in Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage Based on Patent Data: A Temporal-Spatial-Technical Perspective

Carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS) technology is vital for achieving global carbon reduction targets. Detecting and identifying the evolutionary trajectory and future trends of CCUS technology enable early recognition of promising breakthroughs, thereby supporting earlier development and accelerating technology deployment. This study constructs a multidimensional evolutionary framework to objectively reflect CCUS technological development, evaluating patent data from temporal, spatial, and technical perspectives. Trends in CCUS technological development, strategic positions of major economies, and potential breakthroughs across CCUS subtechnologies are systematically identified. The results are as mentioned: (1) CCUS technology has undergone three progressive developmental phases and is currently in a rapid expansion period with an annual patent growth rate of 20.55%; (2) the United States and Europe were the dominant contributors to CCUS technological development in the early stage, followed by China after 2016, and emerging economy India currently exhibits the fastest growth trajectory; and (3) among the 14 identified hotspot technologies, advanced membrane technologies, microbial-based storage and solidification of carbon dioxide (CO2), and electrocatalytic CO2 conversion urgently require accelerated patent layout and research as the most impactful pathways for mitigating carbon emissions. This study provides critical insight for understanding the evolutionary characteristics of CCUS technology and its potential breakthroughs, thereby supporting carbon neutrality objectives.