This review paper evaluates the critical selection criteria for slow and medium kinetic chemical solvents used in the CO2 absorption process during natural gas purification. The chemical absorbents� reaction mechanism, capacities, chemical structure, and operating parameters on the CO2 absorption performance was discussed. Other solvent properties such as vapor pressure, corrosively, viscosity, forming tendency, regeneration energy, thermal stability, and toxicity was investigated to portray their overall potentials industrial applications. Generally, the absorbents absorption rate is the superior determinant factor for their industrial applications. Thus, desirable solvent performance breakthrough will depend on CO2 absorption rate enhancement research via chemical/mechanical methods. © 2021 Elsevier B.V.