Integrated carbon capture and utilization technologies for sustainable power systems: advances, challenges, digitalization, and future perspectives

Abstract The accelerating rise of anthropogenic CO 2 emissions from fossil fuel–based power generation remains a critical challenge to achieving global climate and net-zero targets. Carbon Capture and Utilization (CCU) has emerged as a transformative pathway for simultaneously mitigating emissions, valorizing carbon resources, and enabling sustainable energy transitions. This review provides a comprehensive assessment of integrated CCU technologies across the entire carbon management value chain, encompassing CO 2 capture, transportation, storage, utilization, and system integration. Major capture routes, including pre-combustion, post-combustion, oxy-fuel combustion, chemical looping combustion, and direct air capture, are critically evaluated in terms of capture efficiency, energy demand, economic viability, and deployment potential. Recent advances in nanostructured sorbents, advanced membranes, ionic liquids, and metal–organic frameworks have enabled CO 2 removal efficiencies exceeding 90 % while improving process performance and selectivity. The review further examines thermochemical, electrochemical, photocatalytic, biological, and mineralization pathways for converting captured CO 2 into synthetic fuels, value-added chemicals, and carbon-negative materials. Particular emphasis is placed on the integration of CCU with renewable energy systems, green hydrogen production, biomass valorization, and smart-grid infrastructures to establish circular and low-carbon energy networks. Emerging digital technologies, including artificial intelligence, machine learning, Internet of Things platforms, and digital twins, are also analyzed for intelligent process optimization and predictive emissions management. The review identifies key technological barriers, research priorities, and future opportunities, providing a strategic roadmap for the deployment of next-generation CCU systems toward sustainable and carbon-neutral power sectors.