High-value conversion of methane via mild conditions towards C-N coupling

Methane, the primary component of natural gas, is an important carbon resource and chemical feedstock. However, its stable C-H bonds make methane difficult to activate under mild conditions, while conventional high-temperature processes are often associated with high energy consumption and carbon emissions. Therefore, methane conversion under mild conditions has attracted increasing attention. This review systematically summarizes recent advances in solar-driven methane upgrading, including the principles of methane conversion, catalyst design, reaction systems, and representative conversion pathways. Moreover, the feasibility of methane-involved C-N coupling reactions for the synthesis of high-value nitrogen-containing compounds is highlighted. The application of advanced techniques, including in situ characterization and data-driven methods, in mechanism studies and catalyst screening is also discussed. Finally, future perspectives for mild methane conversion and C-N product synthesis are presented.