Mechanism-Imposed Limitations on the Yield of Higher Hydrocarbons from the Oxidative Coupling of Methane, and Alternate Approaches to Methane Conversion
Abstract
The conversion of methane to higher hydrocarbons via oxidative coupling over metal oxide catalysts is the subject of intense study as a route for natural gas upgrading. Detailed study on the reaction of methane over a mixed manganese-magnesium oxide implicates a mechanism involving generation of methyl radicals at the surface, followed by radical coupling as well as other radical reactions in the gas phase as the predominant mode of carbon-carbon bond formation. Analysis of the consequences of this mechanisms suggests that there is an inherent limit on yield, including a major adverse pressure effect, that may severely impact the potential utility of this route. Among several possible approaches to circumventing this limitation, a novel class of catalyst - transition metal-exchanged P -alumina -- has been found to be highly active for complete oxidation of methane. Results of catalytic and characterization studies will be presented.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 01, 1991
- Accession Number
- ADA258801
Entities
People
- J. A. Labinger
Organizations
- California Institute of Technology