Assessing the potential of CO₂ bio-conversion technologies: a two-decade study of patents, publications, and market viability for sustainable carbon management

Innovative Carbon, Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS) technologies have recently emerged with a particular focus on bio-conversion methods to achieve net-zero by 2050. This study explores the current landscape of CO₂ bio-conversion technologies, including biomass utilization, biofuel production, and the development of biodegradable biomaterials. Despite its potential, bio-conversion lags other CCUS strategies due to inherent challenges such as slower reaction kinetics and commercialization difficulties. Here, we conducted a comprehensive analysis of publications and patents from the past two decades to identify trends related to biomass, biofuels, and biomaterials within the CCUS framework. Our findings show a peak in biomass-related patents in 2005, sustained interest in syngas and algae technologies, and significant fluctuations in biofuel patent activity, particularly around 2015. Although the number of biomaterial patents remains modest, interest in the field is growing, especially in medical applications. Research output has surged, with 33,817 publications identified, highlighting the critical role of microalgae and microbial biomass in carbon capture. These results suggest a promising outlook for the CO₂ bio-conversion market, driven by international carbon regulations and supportive national policies, particularly in the United States, Germany, and China. This study offers valuable insights for policymakers and industry stakeholders, encouraging innovation and investment in CO₂ bio-conversion technologies, while supporting global efforts toward carbon neutrality and the sustainable transformation of energy systems.