In the OCM process, methane reacts with oxygen over a catalyst at high temperatures (typically 700-900°C) to form C2 hydrocarbons (like ethylene and ethane), along with water and carbon oxides. The general mechanism involves the following steps:
Activation of methane on the catalyst surface. Formation of methyl radicals (CH3•). Coupling of methyl radicals to form C2 hydrocarbons. Oxidation of products and intermediates.
