Comprehensive Evaluation and Comparative Analysis of Approaches for Capturing Atmospheric CO₂ and Converting It into Sustainable e-Fuels
2026-26-0115
To be published on 01/16/2026
- Content
- As atmospheric CO₂ levels soar the urgent need for the breakthrough solution that not only capture carbon directly from the air but also convert it into sustainable synthetic fuel (eFuels) has never been clearer & offering a transformative pathway to close the carbon loop and combat the climate changes. This paper delivers an incisive, holistic assessment of cutting edge CO₂ capture technologies to innovative membrane and hybrid systems alongside powerful conversion strategies including thermochemical, electrochemical, photochemical, & biological route. By the rigorously dissecting each method's underlying mechanisms, energy footprints, scalability & constraints, we reveal the critical bottlenecks and untapped potentials. At its core the study pioneers a bold approach to elevate the integrated energy efficiency of DAC coupled with electrochemical CO₂-to-methanol conversion from a modest 25% to an unprecedented 60% through targeted optimization of thermal, electrochemical, and auxiliary systems. This research charts a decisive course toward cost-effective, scalable CO₂-to eFuel technologies that could revolutionize sustainable energy and drastically reduce global carbon emission. This paper not only advances the scientific understanding of CO₂ capture and conversion technologies but also providing a vital roadmap for policymakers, researchers & the industry leaders aiming to implement scalable, economically viable solutions that will shape the future of sustainable energy, drive climate policy innovation & accelerate the global transition to a low-carbon economy.
- Citation
- Jain, G., PREMLAL, P., Pathak, R., and Gore, P., "Comprehensive Evaluation and Comparative Analysis of Approaches for Capturing Atmospheric CO₂ and Converting It into Sustainable e-Fuels," SAE Technical Paper 2026-26-0115, 2026, .