Method and Catalyst for Methane Conversion to Cyclohexane

Cyclohexane is an important intermediary in nylon production.  Today, it is produced from benzene, which is produced from petroleum feedstocks.  Methane is seen as an interesting alternate feedstock for cyclohexane and, in turn, nylon.  But, it is indicated that “ … the inertness of C-H bonds which require a large activation energy”.  

A catalyst for moderate temperature production of cyclohexane from methane is presented.  The instant catalyst comprises Platinum (Pt) clusters on Gallium Nitride (GaN), Zinc Oxide (ZnO) or Gallium Oxide (Ga₂O₃).  In one example Pt clusters are formed on >95% GaN particles, where the Pt represents between 0.75 and 4.5 weight % of the catalyst.  Further, the clusters are said to comprise up to 10 Pt atoms and have a dimeter less than 2 nm.  In one example, the Pt clusters are fabricated using wet chemistry.  

In at least one case a batch reactor was used, where the catalyst was formed on the reactor walls.  That said, use of a continuous reactor are discussed. Good results were provided by a 1 weight % Pt / GaN catalyst operating at 300 ^oC.  Produced hydrocarbons were approximately 89% cyclohexane.