Volume 39, Issue 11 pp. 1996-2010
Review

Oxidative Coupling of Methane: Opportunities for Microkinetic Model-Assisted Process Implementations

Ana Obradović

Ana Obradović

Ghent University, Laboratory for Chemical Technology, Ghent, Belgium.

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Joris W. Thybaut

Corresponding Author

Joris W. Thybaut

Ghent University, Laboratory for Chemical Technology, Ghent, Belgium.

Ghent University, Laboratory for Chemical Technology, Ghent, Belgium.Search for more papers by this author
Guy B. Marin

Guy B. Marin

Ghent University, Laboratory for Chemical Technology, Ghent, Belgium.

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First published: 25 August 2016
Citations: 22

Abstract

Oxidative coupling of methane is a low-cost alternative for ethylene production. However, its high exothermicity, complex reaction network, and low selectivity to C2 products require more in-depth analysis for economically viable process implementation. Microkinetic modeling enables assessment of operating conditions and catalyst properties on the overall performance via elementary gas-phase and catalytic reactions. The know-how to reproduce and interpret experimental kinetic data, especially the role of highly reactive intermediate species, is crucial for correct reaction network determination. Once the catalyst descriptors, physical catalyst properties, and operating conditions are determined and optimized, next catalyst generations can be developed tailored to the process implementation.

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