Anaerobic conversion of methane to acetonitrile over solid-state-pyrolysis-synthesized GaN catalysts

Korawich Trangwachirachai, Chin Han Chen, Yu Chuan Lin

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7 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

The anaerobic conversion of methane to acetonitrile (AcCN) using GaN catalysts synthesized through the solid-state pyrolysis of gallium nitrate hydrate and melamine was investigated. A series of GaN catalysts (unsupported GaN, 50 wt% GaN/SiO2, and 5 wt% GaN/SiO2) were prepared, and their physicochemical properties were analyzed. The as-synthesized GaN catalysts had higher porosities, lower crystallinities, and better activities than those of the commercial GaN. Among tested catalysts, 5 wt% GaN/SiO2 displayed the highest methane conversion rate and AcCN productivity at 700 °C. Residual carbonaceous and nitrogen species, such as sp2-N (N = C) and cyano-N (N[tbnd]C), are likely to participate in the transformation of methane to AcCN. The activity of post-reaction 5 wt% GaN/SiO2 could be partially rejuvenated by a calcination-nitridation-activation process.

Original languageEnglish
Article number111961
JournalMolecular Catalysis
Volume516
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2021 Nov

All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes

  • Catalysis
  • Process Chemistry and Technology
  • Physical and Theoretical Chemistry

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