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Activation and oxidative dimerization of methane over lithium-promoted zinc oxide

Journal Article · · Journal of Catalysis; (USA)
OSTI ID:6555167

Lithium-doped ZnO has been found to be a relatively good catalyst for the oxidative dimerization of methane to ethane and ethylene. Maximum C{sub 2} yields of approximately 15% have been attained and are comparable with those previously observed over Li-doped MgO catalysts. Initial methane activation is believed to be via hydrogen atom abstraction by (Li{sup +}O{sup {minus}}) centers on the catalyst surface, and this results in the formation of surface-generated gas-phase methyl radicals. Gas-phase radical reactions provide the primary pathway for the formation of selective C{sub 2} products. Nonselective C{sub 1} product formation is most likely promoted on the pure ZnO surface. Zinc oxide is a nonbasic semiconductor, whereas MgO is a basic insulator. However, these differences in electronic and basic properties tend to disappear when the oxides are doped with lithium, and the similarities are reflected in the catalytic properties.

OSTI ID:
6555167
Journal Information:
Journal of Catalysis; (USA), Journal Name: Journal of Catalysis; (USA) Vol. 112:2; ISSN 0021-9517; ISSN JCTLA
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English