A Chinese research team has achieved a scientific breakthrough by converting methane into methanol under mild conditions, a development that could pave the way for large-scale use of natural gas hydrates. This is reported by
China Daily, a partner of TV BRICS.
The study demonstrates a nanoscale palladium catalyst capable of achieving 99.7 per cent conversion efficiency at just 70°C. Conventional industrial processes for methane conversion typically require temperatures above 800°C and high pressure, often resulting in wasted carbon dioxide emissions.
According to experts, the success lies in precision engineering of the catalyst’s surface structure. This design allows methane molecules to activate and then rapidly release methanol before further oxidation occurs, preventing efficiency loss.
The research, launched in 2020, aligns with China’s goals to harness undersea energy resources while advancing peak carbon and carbon neutrality targets. The research team noted that the results have “extremely high commercial application potential and economic value”, with the team planning to build a medium-scale demonstration unit within two years and move towards commercial deployment within a decade.
If successfully scaled up, the technology could remove a key barrier to commercialising gas hydrates, often referred to as “flammable ice”, which represent vast untapped reserves of cleaner energy. Methanol, beyond its role as a chemical feedstock, also holds promise as a clean-burning fuel for maritime and land transport.
Photo: metamorworks /
iStock
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