CO2 adsorption by graphene: Mechanisms, modifications, and applications

Rising CO2 levels are accelerating global climate change at an unprecedented rate. Effective CO2 capture and utilization technologies are critical now more than ever. Graphene has emerged as attractive solid adsorbents due to its exceptional surface area, modifiable electrical characteristics, and ease of chemical modification. This study analyzes the interactions between graphene and CO2, both physical and chemical, and explores how the structure can be modified to improve capture capacity. We begin by introducing adsorption within the broad scope of carbon capture methodologies, including chemical absorption and solid adsorption. The discussion subsequently focuses on the inherent characteristics of graphene that facilitate these mechanisms, followed by techniques for functionalization and heteroatom doping that create active binding sites and enhance charge distribution. Application sections categorize graphene materials into physisorption, chemisorption, and hybrid systems, illustrating how hierarchical porosity and tailored surface chemistry jointly improve performance under realistic flue gas and ambient conditions. Finally, we highlight emerging opportunities for CO2 utilization and discuss the remaining challenges of stability, regeneration energy, and scalability. Together, these insights position graphene-based sorbents as a vital bridge between high-capacity laboratory materials and the next generation of practical carbon capture technologies.