Carbon capture storage and utilization in the cement industry: Systematic literature review on methanol and urea production from carbon based emissions

Abstract

This thesis comprehensively evaluates the technical feasibility, environmental performance, and strategic potential of Carbon Capture, Storage and Utilization (CCSU) technologies for reducing CO₂ emissions from the cement industry. Due to its high heat demand, process-related calcination, and the continued use of fossil fuels, the cement sector accounts for approximately 7–8 percent of global greenhouse gas emissions and is among the most difficult-to-abate industries. Since emissions originate not only from production processes but also from auxiliary activities such as energy supply, logistics, and raw material preparation, an integrated carbon management approach is required. The study is based on a systematic literature review conducted in accordance with the PRISMA protocol for the period 2013–2025, focusing on the conversion of CO₂ captured from cement production into value-added chemicals such as methanol and urea. The analysis covers 97 publications, of which 76.3 percent are peer-reviewed journal articles, 19.6 percent are technical or institutional reports, and 4.1 percent are international conference papers. The selected studies are examined in detail in terms of capture mechanisms, conversion routes, catalyst systems, energy integration, process efficiency, and techno-economic indicators. A temporal analysis reveals a significant increase in publication activity during 2021–2023, in alignment with global policy frameworks such as net-zero targets, the EU Green Deal, the IPCC Sixth Assessment Report, and national strategies. The findings show that technologies for converting CO₂ into methanol and urea have reached technical maturity at the laboratory and pilot scales; however, industrial-scale deployment remains limited due to factors such as high energy demand, catalyst durability and selectivity, CO₂ purity and plant integration requirements, and the market competitiveness of the end products. Economic feasibility depends on carbon pricing, incentive mechanisms, and regulatory support under emissions trading systems. The thesis also highlights the importance of enabling factors such as institutional adaptation, industrial collaboration, carbon hubs, and alignment with circular economy principles. Overall, the study provides an interdisciplinary, evidence-based synthesis of the emission dynamics and conversion opportunities in the cement sector, offering actionable recommendations for R&D prioritization, policy design, and sustainable industrial transformation for researchers, industry stakeholders, and policymakers.