There are several key methods for methane conversion, each employing different catalytic processes:
1. Steam Reforming: This is the most widely used method where methane reacts with steam in the presence of a catalyst, typically nickel-based, to produce synthesis gas (a mixture of hydrogen and carbon monoxide).
2. Dry Reforming: In this method, methane reacts with carbon dioxide instead of steam, producing synthesis gas with a lower hydrogen to carbon monoxide ratio. This process uses catalysts such as nickel or noble metals like rhodium.
3. Partial Oxidation: Methane is partially oxidized with oxygen to form synthesis gas. This method is faster than steam reforming and is typically conducted using catalysts like platinum or rhodium.
4. Oxidative Coupling of Methane (OCM): This process aims to directly convert methane into ethylene and other valuable hydrocarbons using catalysts such as mixed metal oxides.
5. Direct Methane to Methanol Conversion: This method involves the direct conversion of methane to methanol using catalysts such as copper-exchanged zeolites under mild conditions.
