Carbon-Neutral Concrete: A Review on Carbon Capture, Storage, and Utilization Technologies

Abstract

Concrete industry is responsible for approximately 7% of total CO₂ emissions around the globe making it a critical target for decarbonization. This review study evaluates carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS) technologies applicability in concrete industry with a focus on direct air capture (DAC), CO₂ curing, mineral carbonation, and incorporation of carbonated recycled aggregates and alternative binders. Emphasis is placed on the mechanisms of various CCUS technologies, economic feasibility, environmental benefits, mechanical performance, and current challenges in their application and scalability aiming to optimize the structural efficiency, carbon uptake, and cost of concrete structures. Case studies from industrial implementations, such as CarbonCure and Solidia, are analyzed in terms of performance metrics and scale-up potential. Key barriers—such as capture costs, CO₂ transport infrastructure, and durability uncertainties are identified. The study concludes by outlining research gaps and recommending pathways to advance CCUS adoption in concrete through material innovations, standardization, and policy integration in future.