Efficient Photocatalytic Methane Conversion to Liquid Oxygenates by Constructing Charge-Directed Transfer Pathways.

Area of Science:

• Catalysis
• Materials Science
• Photochemistry

Background:

• Methane (CH4) conversion is hindered by its inert C-H bond and complex reaction pathways.
• Developing efficient and selective catalysts for methane oxidation is crucial for resource utilization.

Purpose of the Study:

• To design and fabricate a novel C/ZnO/Pd photocatalyst for selective methane oxidation to C1 products.
• To elucidate the mechanism behind the photocatalyst's enhanced performance.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of a C/ZnO/Pd composite photocatalyst.
• Characterization of the catalyst's structure and properties.
• Methane oxidation reaction under photocatalytic conditions.
• Mechanistic studies involving charge transfer analysis.

Main Results:

• Achieved a C1 production rate of 55.1 mmol·gcat−1·h−1 and 11,020 mmol·gPd−1·h−1.
• Demonstrated high selectivity of up to 98% for C1 products.
• Revealed a directional charge transfer strategy facilitated by synergistic integration of Pd and carbon layer.

Conclusions:

• The C/ZnO/Pd photocatalyst exhibits excellent performance for selective methane conversion.
• A novel strategy involving asymmetric charge transfer enhances photocatalytic activity.
• This approach offers a pathway for designing advanced photocatalysts for methane valorization.