Energy Sector Derived Combustion Products Utilization—Current Advances in Carbon Dioxide Mineralization

Carbon dioxide and combustion products are among the main waste streams deriving from the energy sector. Efficient and cost-effective methods of solid waste valorization and carbon capture, storage and utilization are needed in the transition period towards carbon neutrality in light of the recent scenarios forecasting energy demand and energy supply mix under dynamic social, economic and political circumstances. Within this paper, the current advances in carbon dioxide mineralization, combining carbon dioxide utilization and combustion products valorization, are presented in terms of the recognized methodological options of carbonation methods, process efficiency and effects on the process product properties. Special attention is given to the studies on the valorization of fluidized bed boilers fly ash, differing in a range of parameters from the conventional boilers fly ash, as well as the effects of the carbonation process on the stabilization and improvement of its properties and the resulting extended range of applicability. The relevant research fields needing further investigations, as well as the desired decision makers’ supporting actions, are also specified