A comprehensive overview of carbon dioxide, including emission sources, capture technologies, and the conversion into value-added products

Abstract

Carbon dioxide is both the planet’s enemy and friend since it maintains the balance of the planet as this gas retains some of the radiant energy that the planet receives. Thus, it keeps the Earth’s heat, without which the Earth would be unbearably cold. However, the increase in the quantity of CO2 in the Earth’s atmosphere contributes to the exacerbation of global warming. CO2 is mainly produced from the processes of combustion of fuel and petroleum, as well as from the breathing process of living organisms. This study aims to provide a comprehensive view of carbon dioxide, including the main sources of emissions that resulted in negative effects, as well as the various ways to control these emissions by conducting a separation process during fuel combustion in power plants and preventing the release of large quantities into the atmosphere. Finally, an objective viewpoint on how to benefit from separated carbon dioxide and turn it into highly valuable products is presented. Given that this is a global problem that affects our planet, this review links other literature that deals with each part separately, and thus it presents a clear and comprehensive vision that enables the reader to be aware of carbon dioxide gas from all perspectives, concluding with future studies that are required to prevent an increase in negative effects in order to preserve the quality of life in our planet. Graphical abstract: [Figure not available: see fulltext.].