DIRECT CATALYTIC CONVERSION OF METHANE TO HIGHER HYDROCARBONS

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Abstract
Using a plug-flow reactor we have been able to demonstrate the conversion of pure methane gas to liquid hydrocarbons via the intermediate formation of methanol. The reaction Was carried out at an intermediate pressure (about 20 atm) and moderate temperature (about 400°C). In the first stage of the reactor methane and oxygen react to produce methanol. In the second stage the methanol was converted by HZSM-5 catalyst to a mixture of hydrocarbons. Analysis of the reaction products showed that all of the oxygen Was used in the reaction. Apart from the unconverted methane the product was composed of oxides of carboy water and C3+ hydrocarbons. Interestingly, among the liquid hydrocarbons, aromatics were found to be the major constituents.