The numbers behind carbon in carbon capture
These figures are indicative estimates that vary by scope and year.
Where carbon fits in carbon capture
Biochar is the most commercially significant in-scope carbon for capture and storage. Pyrolysis locks carbon from biomass into a stable, soil-stable form with more than 100-year durability, a carbon-dioxide-removal pathway recognised by voluntary carbon markets. Biochar accounted for roughly 86 percent of all engineered carbon removal delivered in 2024.
Graphene-oxide and CNT membranes are under development for post-combustion CO2 separation, offering higher flux and selectivity than polymer membranes. Lab work in 2024 demonstrated CO2 to CH4 selectivity above 150, and a first 500 square metre industrial pilot reached 88 percent CO2 recovery. Emerging nano carbons such as graphene quantum dots and carbon nanofibres are being researched as sorbents for direct air capture.
Industrial capture today is largely solvent-based amine capture, so in-scope carbons are not yet dominant outside biochar. ACC tracks the producers, the science and the market behind these materials so members can see where carbon-removal claims are verified and where the technology is still at pilot scale.
Key carbons used in carbon capture
Drawn from materials ACC has linked to carbon capture coverage and producers. Each links to its full material profile.