This paper presents a comprehensive literature review on the recent state-of-the-art technologies, sensor placement methodologies, dynamic evaluations and control strategies that have been proposed to improve the efficiency of integrated gasification combined cycle (IGCC) power plants. IGCC technologies and configurations including different types and designs of membranes, short residence-time gasifiers and new classes of turbines with higher firing temperature, represent promising economically attractive technologies for IGCC power plants and therefore are thoroughly reviewed in this work. Optimal sensor placement is critical since harsh operating conditions within specific IGCC components and budget constraints do not allow installing sensors that measure some key process variables for this system. The statistical approaches to determine the optimal number of sensors and their location in the plant are discussed. The dynamic performance of IGCC processes in closed-loop control is considered under critical scenarios using various tools such as process assessment under uncertainty, plant-wide and local control strategies. Major applications for each of these tools have been reported and discussed in detail. Furthermore, challenges and development potential for optimal sensor location and control systems for commercial IGCC power plants are outlined in this work. (C) 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.