Is it time to stop searching for better catalysts for oxidative coupling of methane?

Abstract

• Methane valorization is limited by products that are more reactive than methane. • Few examples exist of OCM catalysts delivering C 2 product yields above 30% • C-H bond energies and linear free energy relations explain yield limitations. • Inclusion of additional reactions and transport effects reduces predicted yields. • The prognosis for catalyst improvement is poor; process innovations are needed.