Methane direct conversion to aromatic hydrocarbons at low reaction temperature

Conversion of pure methane and natural gas with different methane purity to aromatic hydrocarbons at 773 and 873 K have been investigated. Conversion of methane to aromatics under non-oxidizing conditions can be initiated by higher hydrocarbon mixtures in the feed and, some special coke deposited on Mo/HZSM-5 catalyst at lower reaction temperature. Methane conversion of about 10-20% is obtained at 773 K. The possible reaction mechanism and product phase transformation process for conversion of pure methane and natural gas at lower temperature are proposed. The thermodynamic limitation for methane conversion under non-oxidizing conditions may be circumvented.