Valorisation of Greenhouse Gas for Commodity Chemical Production-Nitrous Oxide as Oxidising Agent for Heterogeneous...

Nitrous oxide (N₂O) has shown application potential as an oxidant to directly convert substances such as methane, ethane, and benzene into useful substances such as methanol, styrene, phenols, and carbonyl compounds. It decomposes greenhouse gases and simultaneously produces highly applicable substances. Research have been performed to improve the conversion of N₂O and reactants in this process and to increase the selectivity of useful chemicals. Catalyst modifications have been tried to favour the production of reactive oxygen species and prevent further oxidation for better performances. This review paper focuses on various methods to increase the efficiency of heterogeneous catalytic N₂O-assisted selective oxidation within the last five years, particularly on catalyst improvements. Results are categorised based on targeted products (oxygenates, hydrocarbons and ring compounds), revealing the approaches and achievements of each researcher. The catalytic performance can be optimised by changing the phase, surface area and acidity of the catalyst through metal loading and changes in manufacturing methods. To increase the practicality of this technology, additional research needs to be performed.