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Catalyst-free partial oxidation of methane under ambient conditions boosted by mechanical stirring-enhanced ultrasonic cavitation

Author

Listed:
  • Yingtong Pan

    (Donghua University)

  • Ruofan Li

    (Chinese Academy of Sciences)

  • Ling Zhang

    (Chinese Academy of Sciences)

  • Ji-Xuan Liu

    (Donghua University)

  • Wenzhong Wang

    (Chinese Academy of Sciences)

  • Guo-Jun Zhang

    (Donghua University)

Abstract

The partial oxidation of methane (POM) into value-added C1 chemicals (e.g., CH3OH, HCHO, and CO) offers a promising approach for natural gas utilization under mild conditions. However, existing POM systems often rely on complex catalyst designs and the addition of extra oxidants. Here, we developed a catalyst-free POM system by integrating mechanical stirring with a low-frequency ultrasonic field. A high production rate of C1 chemicals (129.26 µmol h−1) and methane conversion rate (22%) were achieved under ambient conditions (298 K, PCH4 = 0.1 bar, PO2 = 0.1 bar, PN2 = 0.8 bar). Mechanism studies revealed that the introduction of mechanical stirring amplified the ultrasonic cavitation effect, promoting the in-situ release of reactive oxygen species. Reaction pathway investigation confirmed that hydroxyl radicals facilitated the cleavage of methane C-H bonds and that oxygen participated in the generation of POM products. This strategy provides a sustainable avenue for the value-added conversion of methane.

Suggested Citation

  • Yingtong Pan & Ruofan Li & Ling Zhang & Ji-Xuan Liu & Wenzhong Wang & Guo-Jun Zhang, 2025. "Catalyst-free partial oxidation of methane under ambient conditions boosted by mechanical stirring-enhanced ultrasonic cavitation," Nature Communications, Nature, vol. 16(1), pages 1-9, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:nat:natcom:v:16:y:2025:i:1:d:10.1038_s41467-025-62924-2
    DOI: 10.1038/s41467-025-62924-2
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