Abstract

This review presents a comprehensive analysis of conventional carbon capture technologies compared with emerging membrane-based approaches. Carbon capture and storage (CCS) remains essential for meeting climate goals as fossil fuels continue to dominate the global energy portfolio. While conventional methods like solvent-based absorption have dominated industrial applications, membrane-based capture systems have advanced significantly, offering promising alternatives. This paper examines the technological principles, economic considerations, energy requirements, environmental impacts, and implementation challenges of both approaches. Current research trends, knowledge gaps, and future prospects are also discussed. The review concludes that membrane technologies show considerable promise for specific applications, though conventional methods remain more mature for large-scale deployment. Hybrid systems that leverage the strengths of both approaches may represent the most pragmatic path forward in the near term.