CO₂ capture via subsurface mineralization geological settings and engineering perspectives towards long-term storage and decarbonization in the Middle East

Mineral carbonation or mineralization of CO₂ using rocks or waste industrial materials is emerging as a viable carbon capture and storage (CCS) technology, especially for smaller and medium-scale emitters where geological sequestration is not feasible. During mineralization processes, CO₂ chemically reacts with alkaline earth metals in waste materials or rocks to form stable and non-toxic carbonates In situ mineral carbonation holds promise due to ample resources and enhanced security. However, it is still in its early stages, with higher transport and storage costs compared to geological storage in sedimentary basins. Ex situ mineral carbonation has shown promise at pilot and demonstration scales, but its widespread application is hindered by high costs, ranging from US$50-US$300/ton of sequestered CO₂. This review delves into the current progress of proposed mineralization technologies and their potential in reducing the overall cost of CO₂ sequestration. The discussion critically analyzes various factors affecting carbonation reactions, such as temperature, pressure, leaching agents, solid-to-liquid ratio, and mineralogy for geological settings relevant to the Middle East and the net-zero strategy established within Gulf Cooperation Countries (GCC). Furthermore, the potential commercialization of mineral carbonation, emphasizing the importance of reducing energy consumption and production costs to make the process economically viable is highlighted, offering directions for circular economy and mineral carbonation as a substantial carbon mitigation tool in the Middle East region.