Abstract

MOJICA MOLINA, Hebert Rodrigo; GONZALEZ MONTIEL, Marlene  and  NAVARRO FROMETA, Amado Enrique. Batch Conversion of Methane to Methanol Using Copper Loaded Mordenite: Influence of the Main Variables of the Process. Ing. Investig. [online]. 2021, vol.41, n.3, e204.  Epub Aug 20, 2021. ISSN 0120-5609.  https://doi.org/10.15446/ing.investig.v41n3.87537.

Due to the demands of oxygenated derivatives of hydrocarbons for the industry, the methane (CH4) to methanol (MeOH) conversion through solid-state catalysis is a current topic, with definite questions and specific challenges. This work shows a statistical model that predicts the quantity of methanol produced through a batch conversion process employing copper-exchanged mordenite in accordance with a full factorial experimental design. Synthesis was performed through solid-state ion exchange from Cu(acac)2 and NH4-Mordenite, obtaining weight percentages (%Cu) of 1%, 3%, and 5%, which was followed by activation through calcination at a range of temperatures (Tcal) between 300-500 °C, as well as a reaction with methane under 2-10 bar pressure (P) in static conditions employing a batch reactor. The quantities of MeOH produced, and their yields were determined through a gas chromatography and mass spectrometry analysis of the reaction samples. Finally, the role and contribution of each of the variables considered in the conversion process were analyzed. By using a nonlinear model, a quadratic dependence with %Cu and P in the studied range of the variables was found, as well as a linear dependence with Tcal. Finally, for this experiment, the highest yields (μmol/g) were obtained with the following conditions: %Cu = 3 %, P = 6 bar, and Tcal = 400 °C.

Keywords : methane; methanol; mild conditions; copper mordenite; solid-state ion exchange; activation temperature; methane pressure; copper weight percent.

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