Heterogeneous catalysis of methane hydroxylation with nearly total selectivity under mild conditions

• Published in: Chemical communications (Cambridge, England) England), 2024-10, Vol.6 (79), p.1134-1151
• Main Authors: Fang, Geqian, Yu, Wenjun, Wang, Xiaodong, Lin, Jian
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Catalysts; Catalytic converters; Design optimization; Emissions; Energy consumption; Hydroxylation; Methane hydrates; Methane utilization; Natural gas; Oxidation; Parameters; Selectivity; Shale gas
• ISSN: 1359-7345; 1364-548X; 1364-548X
• DOI: 10.1039/d4cc02802c

The efficient utilization of methane, a vital component of natural gas, shale gas and methane hydrate, holds significant importance for global energy security and environmental sustainability. However, converting methane into value-added oxygenates presents a formidable challenge due to its inert nature. Direct selective oxidation of methane (DSOM) under mild conditions is essential for reducing energy consumption and carbon emissions compared with traditional indirect routes. Achieving total selectivity in methane hydroxylation remains elusive due to the competitive CO 2 formation. This feature article highlights recent advancements in methane hydroxylation using thermo-, photo-, and electro-catalytic systems. Through strategically designing the structure of catalysts to control the reactive oxygen species and optimizing reaction parameters, significant progress has been made in enhancing oxygenate selectivity and minimizing overoxidation. A comprehensive understanding of the mechanisms underlying methane hydroxylation with total selectivity offers insights for improving catalyst design and reaction parameter optimization, promoting sustainable methane utilization. Recent advancements in methane hydroxylation catalysis have achieved nearly total selectivity. A deeper understanding of catalyst design, reaction mechanism, and parameter optimization is crucial for minimizing CO 2 and boosting oxygenate yield.