A Review on the Catalytic Nonoxidative Conversion of Methane to Aromatics

The activation and conversion of methane to higher hydrocarbons and hydrogen is a great challenge to catalysis science. In addition to oxidative activation of methane such as oxidative coupling to C2+ hydrocarbons, the nonoxidative activation of methane to aromatics has been received extensive attention since 1993. Non-oxidative conversion of methane is strongly limited by the thermodynamics of the process. However, the transition from the present era of fossil fuels to the coming hydrogen energy age makes this process an interesting and important approach in comparison with the direct oxidative conversion of methane. This paper presents a comprehensive review of the direct conversion of CH4 to aromatics under non-oxidative conditions. The catalysts, mechanisms and kinetics of the reaction, types of reactors and process conditions, along with the carbonaceous deposits formation are discussed.