Recent advances in structural analysis, diagnostics, and challenges in electrochemical CO₂ compression systems: a bibliometric and systematic review using the methodi ordinatio approach

Abstract Electrochemical CO 2 compression (ECO 2 C) is emerging as a transformative technology for CO 2 management, offering an electrically driven approach for the concentration and pressurization of CO 2 through electrochemical transport processes. Unlike conventional mechanical methods, ECO 2 C operates under moderate temperatures and pressures, with lower energy losses and no moving parts, positioning it as a sustainable alternative. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of the state of the art in electrochemical CO 2 technologies, supported by a rigorous bibliometric study that identifies emerging trends, key authors, and leading institutions. Based on this framework, the work explores the operational principles of ECO 2 C, the thermodynamic mechanisms involved, and the role of critical materials such as electrocatalysts, anion exchange membranes, and gas diffusion layers. Furthermore, it addresses the key challenges associated with faradaic efficiency, high overpotentials, and the competing hydrogen evolution reaction. Finally, the study identifies parameters for industrial scalability and provides guidelines for device design.