Chlorine-mediated methane activation: an efficient photocatalytic pathway to valuable chemicals

Author(s)

da Silva, Marcos A. R. ; Cunha, Carla S. ; Silva, Luana L. B. ; Farias, Isadora G. ; Teixeira, Ivo F.

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: CHEMICAL COMMUNICATIONS; v. N/A, p. 12-pg., 2025-02-03.

Abstract

Methane (CH4), a major component of natural gas, is both a valuable energy source and a potent greenhouse gas. Due to the remote locations of many CH4 reserves and the challenges of transportation, converting methane into liquid compounds under mild, sustainable conditions is highly desirable. Photocatalysis, a solar-driven technology, offers a promising approach for methane activation at ambient temperatures, avoiding issues like catalyst deactivation and product overoxidation associated with conventional high-temperature methods. Recent research highlights the potential of photogenerated chlorine radicals for methane conversion, providing a milder oxidative pathway that enhances selectivity for oxygenated products and minimizes overoxidation to CO2. This work reviews advancements in methane activation using chlorine-based photocatalysis, discussing its advantages and areas for further optimization to facilitate methane valorisation into valuable chemicals. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 21/13271-9 - Single atoms coordinated on graphitic carbon nitrides to photocatalytic conversion of methane
• Grantee: Marcos Augusto Ribeiro da Silva
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Doctorate
• FAPESP's process: 23/06070-2 - Toluene Selective Photo-Oxidation Using Graphitic Carbon Nitride as a Catalyst
• Grantee: Carla da Silva Cunha
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Master
• FAPESP's process: 22/13249-6 - Graphitic carbon nitrides as platforms for single-atom photocatalysis: moving towards design principles for improved performance
• Grantee: Isadora Guedes Farias
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Doctorate (Direct)
• FAPESP's process: 20/14741-6 - Graphitic carbon nitrides as platforms for single-atom photocatalysis: moving towards design principles for improved performance
• Grantee: Ivo Freitas Teixeira
• Support Opportunities: Research Grants - Young Investigators Grants
• FAPESP's process: 23/03714-6 - Single Atoms Supported on Crystalline Carbon Nitrides Catalysts for Selective Benzene Oxidation to Phenol
• Grantee: Luana Luzia Barros da Silva
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation