Methane Utilization Research Articles

Influence of Dopants on Pt/Al2O3-Based Monolithic Catalysts for Autothermal Oxidative Coupling of Methane

Autothermal oxidative coupling of methane (OCM) is a highly attractive approach for methane utilization. If platinum-based catalysts are operated in short-contact-time reactors with high space velocities, high methane conversion can be achieved. Using a 1 wt.% Pt/Al2O3 catalyst as a benchmark, the present study elucidates how different dopants, namely Ni, Sn, and V2O5, affect the OCM reaction. Kinetic catalyst tests reveal that acetylene (C2H2) is the predominant C2 product, irrespective of the catalyst formulation or operation conditions. Furthermore, the use of bimetallic catalysts allows either for the maintenance or even the improvement of the C2 selectivity during OCM, which is attributed to synergistic effects that occur when expensive Pt is partially replaced by cheaper dopants. In particular, the 1 wt.% Pt/Al2O3 reference catalyst yielded a maximum C2 selectivity of 8.2%, whereas the best-performing doped sample 0.25 wt.% Pt 0.75 wt.% V2O5/Al2O3 yielded a total C2 selectivity of 11.3%.

Cold plasma-activated Ni-Co tandem catalysts with CN vacancies for enhancing CH4 electrocatalytic to methyl formate

The direct electrooxidation of methane (CH4OR) into high value-added liquid products has been considered an effective method to efficient and clean utilization of methane. However, this process is mainly limited by CH4 activation and subsequent intermediate regulation. Here, we report the first successful achieve methyl formate from CH4OR on Ni-Co tandem catalysts with CN vacancies prepared by H2 cold plasma. The faradaic efficiency of CH4OR into methyl formate reaches 56.7 % at 2.0 V vs. RHE with remained stability for 160 h. In situ ATR-SEIRAS and DFT calculations suggest that the CN vacancies can shift the d-band center of the active Ni sites upwards to enhance the chemisorption of CH4 over Ni atom near CN vacancy, generating the key intermediates of *CH3 and *CH2. *CH2 further overflows onto the Co atom around the same CN vacancy, providing favorable conditions for esterification reaction to obtain methyl formate. This work opens a new avenue for the development of efficient electrocatalytic systems for the clean utilization of methane and the electrosynthesis of methyl formate under ambient conditions.

Polydopamine‐Mediated Contact‐Electro‐Catalysis for Efficient Partial Oxidation of Methane

The direct conversion and efficient utilization of methane pose a critical scientific challenge. Indirect activation via reactive oxygen species (ROS) offers a high probability of contact with methane and conversion efficiency under mild conditions. However, reported product yields are suboptimal due to challenges in activating oxygen and facilitating mass transfer in suspension systems. We propose the use of contact‐electro‐catalysis (CEC), employing polydopamine (PDA) as a catalyst that undergoes electron transfer with oxygen under ultrasound, generating ROS that drives the partial oxidation of methane (POM). Corresponding experimental results indicate that CH3OH and most HCHO are produced directly from CH4. Furthermore, through in situ characterizations, we have shown that light pretreatment of the catalysts in an oxygenated atmosphere facilitates the forming of more C=O functional groups with strong electron‐withdrawing properties, thereby significantly enhancing overall product yields, particularly for CH3OH. Within two hours, product yields reach 1.5 mmol·gcat−1 for HCHO and 0.9 mmol·gcat−1 for CH3OH. This work introduces a novel approach for efficient POM, while highlighting the distinctive catalytic properties of PDA.

Polydopamine-Mediated Contact-Electro-Catalysis for Efficient Partial Oxidation of Methane.

The direct conversion and efficient utilization of methane pose a critical scientific challenge. Indirect activation via reactive oxygen species (ROS) offers a high probability of contact with methane and conversion efficiency under mild conditions. However, reported product yields are suboptimal due to challenges in activating oxygen and facilitating mass transfer in suspension systems. We propose the use of contact-electro-catalysis (CEC), employing polydopamine (PDA) as a catalyst that undergoes electron transfer with oxygen under ultrasound, generating ROS that drives the partial oxidation of methane (POM). Corresponding experimental results indicate that CH3OH and most HCHO are produced directly from CH4. Furthermore, through in situ characterizations, we have shown that light pretreatment of the catalysts in an oxygenated atmosphere facilitates the forming of more C=O functional groups with strong electron-withdrawing properties, thereby significantly enhancing overall product yields, particularly for CH3OH. Within two hours, product yields reach 1.5 mmol·gcat-1 for HCHO and 0.9 mmol·gcat-1 for CH3OH. This work introduces a novel approach for efficient POM, while highlighting the distinctive catalytic properties of PDA.

Online monitoring of methane transfer rates unveils nitrogen fixation dynamics in Methylococcus capsulatus.

This study explores methane utilization by the methanotrophic microorganism Methylococcus capsulatus (Bath) for biomass production, presenting a promising approach to mitigate methane emissions and foster the development sustainable biomaterials. Traditional screening methods for gas cultivations involve either serum flasks without online monitoring or costly, low-throughput fermenters. To address these limitations, the Respiration Activity MOnitoring System was augmented with methane sensors for real-time methane transfer rate (MTR) monitoring in shake flasks. Utilizing online monitoring of the MTR in shake flasks results in enhanced throughput and cost-effectiveness for cultivating M. capsulatus. Simultaneous monitoring of transfer rates for oxygen, methane, and carbon dioxide was conducted in up to eight shake flasks, ensuring the success of the cultivation process. Alterations in methane-to-oxygen transfer rate ratios and carbon fixation rates reveal the impact of transfer limitations on microbial growth. Detection of gas transfer limitations, exploration of process parameter influences, and investigations of medium components were enabled by the introduced method. Optimal nitrogen concentrations could be determined to ensure optimal growth. This streamlined approach accelerates the screening process, offering efficient investigations into metabolic effects, limitations, and parameter influences in gas fermentations without the need for elaborate offline sampling, significantly reducing costs and enhanced reproducibility.

Experimental Study on the Combustion Characteristics of Ultralow-Concentration Methane in Divergent Porous Media Burner

ABSTRACT To improve the stable combustion characteristics of ultralow-concentration methane (Concentration of 3.5%-5.0%), a series of combustion experiments were carried out by filling alumina spheres with different particle sizes (i.e. 5 mm, 10 mm and 15 mm) in a divergent burner, and the effects of divergent angle (i.e. 10°, 20° and 30°) and pore distribution on the flame propagation and stable combustion characteristics of ultralow-concentration methane were revealed. The results show that larger particle sizes and methane flow rates lead to the double flame surface phenomenon, and increasing angle and decreasing particle size can help to improve the preheating efficiency of the burner. Moreover, the inlet flow rates corresponding to the steady combustion of ultra-low concentrations methane are between 0.225 m/s and 0.308 m/s, the increase in inlet velocity, particle size, and angle will reduce the stability of the flame and make the shape of the flame surface developed in the order of “V→W→∧.” The burner with 10 mm particles and 30° angle has a wider stable combustion range, and the burner filled with smaller pore distribution help to improve the utilization of the lower concentration methane premixed.

Investigation of a novel multigeneration system driven by an ammonia-methane Brayton cycle with partial production and utilization of ammonia, methane, and hydrogen: Energy and carbon footprint assessments

In this paper, to address gaps in the development of low-carbon energy systems, an innovative concept of an ammonia-methane Brayton cycle is proposed. This system is interconnected with various subsystems, including the Kalina cycle, high-temperature steam electrolysis, thermoelectric generators, and ammonia and methane synthesis reactors. The primary aim of this system was to reduce dependence on external resources by establishing local sources for water and fuel, thus reducing the environmental impact and enhancing energy sustainability. A thermodynamic model of an energy system was developed via EES codes which leads to a thoughtful perception into the interactions of the proposed system parameters. Also, comprehensive investigations involved the examination of different energy system scenarios. Modeling outputs of the proposed multigeneration system discovered excellent thermal efficiency and power production, with figures of 56.5 % and 17 MW, respectively, while the Brayton system showed the results of 23.7 % and 3.8 MW. This study also highlighted the environmental benefits of the multigeneration system by demonstrating a carbon dioxide emission of 0.058 kg/kWh, representing its significant positive impact on environmental sustainability. Also, the produced ammonia and methane within the system was 0.37 % and 9 %, of fuel in combustion chamber, respectively. Also, the rest of demand fuel was provided from the external resources.

Methane capture, utilization, and sequestration technology based on biological ectoine production using Methylotuvimicrobium alcaliphilum 20Z

Methanotroph-based CH4 conversion technology is a promising alternative to conventional CH4 utilization methods that rely on energy-intensive CO2 capture processes. In this study, we introduce a novel CH4 capture, utilization, and sequestration (MCUS) technology as a proof-of-concept for eco-friendly CH4 conversion that is applicable to various methanotroph strains. We validated this hypothesis by evaluating ectoine production in Methylotuvimicrobium alcaliphilum 20Z. Cultivation experiments were conducted using pure O2 pulse injection to facilitate the separation of the CO2 generated during CH4 oxidation by concentrating it. To verify the MCUS concept systematically, we performed a model-based process analysis. The operational strategies for the reactors were developed using experiment-based kinetics and reactor models, followed by the design of a rigorous process flow diagram. Economic and environmental impact analyses were conducted to compare MCUS with air-based cultures and existing oxidative CH4 conversion technologies. The key advantage of MCUS is its significantly lower CO2 emissions (0.71 kg-CO2 eq/kg-CH4) than oxidative CH4 utilization (>2.75 kg-CO2 eq/kg-CH4). Moreover, the net present value per CH4 molecule was estimated at 0.7 $/kg-CH4, substantially higher than existing oxidative conversion methods (0.03 $/kg-CH4). Additionally, compared with air-based cultivation, the MCUS process exhibits superior economic and environmental performances. We used methanotrophs for CH4 “capture” and “utilization,” effectively leveraging “sequestration” to convert emissions into pure CO2. The proposed MCUS technology holds promise for practical applications of methanotrophs in producing various high-value-added products, emphasizing eco-friendly approaches.

Cost estimation of Non-CO2 greenhouse gas emissions reduction- A bottom-up analysis of coal-bed methane extraction and utilization in Shanxi, China

This paper analyzes the synergistic effect of coal-bed methane (CBM) extraction and utilization on greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions reduction in Shanxi Province. Using data from a survey of 87 CBM extraction firms and 61 CBM utilization firms, we draw abatement cost curves of methane emission reduction with the "Conserved Supply Curve (CSC)." Our findings show large diversity among the methane abatement costs of extraction firms, meanwhile cost diversity in the extraction step is mainly due to differences in extraction technologies, rather than mine types. Power generation is the main utilization option for CBM, with much smaller abatement cost diversity than in the extraction step. Most utilization projects are established near CBM sources, with small-scale equipment supplied by domestic vendors. We suggest Shanxi could introduce a carbon pricing mechanism to further encourage CBM extraction and increase its scale. Promoting technology standardization can reduce cost diversity among extraction firms, while developing CBM purifying firms can create standardized products and break the strong integration of extraction and utilization. Strengthening CBM transportation infrastructure can form a competitive market with multi-source supply upstream and efficient transportation downstream. Promoting joint research and development for domestic CBM utilization equipment can also improve its scale.

Molecular simulation of CO2/N2 injection on CH4 adsorption and diffusion

As an efficient and clean energy, coalbed methane development and utilization have deep significance in promoting energy conservation and emission reduction, reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Therefore, molecular simulation was utilized to study the influence of N2/CO2 on the adsorption and diffusion of methane in coal under different gas injection methods and to elucidate the influence of varying gas injection methods on the efficiency of coalbed methane extraction, which provides a basis for the efficient development of coalbed methane. The results show that the adsorption effect of gases in coal decreases with the increase of temperature and increases with the rise of pressure, and the adsorption performance of the three gases in coal shows the law of CO2 > CH4 > N2. In addition, the injection of CO2/N2 had an obvious inhibition effect on CH4 adsorption, and the inhibition effect of CO2 was more significant, and the inhibition effect on CH4 adsorption reached the maximum when the two gases were mixture injected. In terms of diffusion, compared with separate injection, mixed injection of N2 + CO2 promotes CH4 diffusion more effectively, which can be reflected in the relative concentration distribution and velocity distribution. The injection of N2 helps to increase the porosity of coal, and the injection of CO2 and N2 + CO2 will lead to the decrease of porosity, but the mixed gas injection has less effect than the injection of CO2 alone.

Experimental investigations on the thermal destabilization and performance enhancement of ventilation air methane in a reversed flow oxidation reactor

Proper mitigation and utilization of coal mine ventilation air methane (VAM) are important to alleviate resource shortage and environmental issues. This work presents a pilot-scale experimental analysis of heat storage and oxidation performance in a VAM-fuelled reversal flow reactor, aiming at elucidating the thermal destabilization behaviour and providing feasible ways to maintain the system stability. Experimental results show that the system could become unstable under variable conditions. When the methane concentration is varied from 0.74 % to 0.70 %, the temperature is gradually becoming steady after operating the system for 5160 s. However, this balance will be broken, and the combustor is extinguished if the methane concentration is decreased from 0.68 % to 0.64 %. A critical average temperature of 780 °C in the combustion chamber is identified, below which the system starts to become unstable. Further analysis reveals the importance of heat-releasing proportion from the regenerator to the fresh gases in determining the system performance with the methane concentration varied. A sufficiently low proportion implies that the fresh gases cannot be properly preheated when entering the combustion chamber. Finally, increasing ventilation gas flow rate and reducing switching time are shown to be effective in promoting the oxidation process due to the enhanced heat storage.

Direct methane utilization through benzene dehydroalkylation catalyzed by Co2+ sites in ZSM-5 intersections

Cobalt cations exchanged in ZSM-5 are active for the direct dehydromethylation of benzene with CH4. While toluene is the primary product, an alternate reaction pathway leads also to the formation of biphenyl and phenyltoluene. This not only diminishes the selectivity but also contributes to the deactivation of the catalyst. Temperature-programmed surface reactions show that benzene adsorbs strongly on the exchanged Co2+ cations, essentially blocking the sites for alkylation below 400 °C. At temperatures exceeding 400 °C, the partial desorption of benzene enables its reaction with CH4, leading to the formation of toluene. The formation of biphenyl is kinetically hindered, and its onset is only observed at temperatures above 450 °C. When CH4 is allowed to chemisorb on Co2+ sites prior to exposure to benzene, the formation of toluene is detected at temperatures below 400 °C. By infrared spectroscopy of benzene adsorption and UV–Vis spectroscopic characterization, we identified the existence of intersections in ZSM-5 where three H+ are in proximity. The ion exchange of a zeolite lattice Al3+ pair in such positions leads to the formation of a Co2+ site near a free Brønsted acid site. We observed a correlation between the concentration of this type of Co2+ sites and the catalytic activity of Co-ZSM-5 in benzene alkylation with CH4. This is further supported by the catalytic tests of Co-ZSM-5 materials with specifically a larger proportion of Co sites in sinusoidal channels, as a result of acidic conditions during ion exchange. Based on this, we propose that toluene formation takes place via heterolytic dissociation of CH4 on a Co2+ site at intersections followed by reaction with benzene strongly interacting with an adjacent BAS.

Recent Advances in the Use of Controlled Nanocatalysts in Methane Conversion Reactions

This study investigates the utilization of controlled nanocatalysts in methane conversion reactions, addressing the pressing need for the efficient utilization of methane as a feedstock for valuable chemicals and clean energy. The methods employed include a comprehensive review of recent advancements in nanocatalyst synthesis, characterization, and application, as well as the critical analysis of underlying mechanisms and controversies in methane activation and transformation. The main findings reveal significant progress in the design and synthesis of controlled nanocatalysts, enabling enhanced activity, selectivity, and stability in methane conversion reactions. Moreover, the study highlights the importance of resolving controversies surrounding metal–support interactions for rational catalyst design. Overall, the study underscores the pivotal role of nanotechnology in shaping the future of methane utilization and sustainable energy production, providing valuable insights for guiding future research directions and technological developments in this field.

Non-Oxidative Coupling of Methane Catalyzed by Heterogeneous Catalysts Containing Singly Dispersed Metal Sites

Direct upgrading of methane into value-added products is one of the most significant technologies for the effective transformation of hydrocarbon feedstocks in the chemical industry. Both oxidative and non-oxidative methane conversion are broadly useful approaches, though the two reaction pathways are quite distinguished. Oxidative coupling of methane (OCM) has been widely studied, but suffers from the low selectivity to C2 hydrocarbons because of the overoxidation leading to undesired byproducts. Therefore, non-oxidative coupling of methane is a worthy alternative approach to be developed for the efficient, direct utilization of methane. Recently, heterogeneous catalysts comprising singly dispersed metal sites, such as single-atom catalysts (SAC) and surface organometallic catalysts (SOMCat), have been proven to be effectively active for direct coupling of methane to product hydrogen and C2 products. In this context, this review summarizes recent discoveries of these novel catalysts and provides a perspective on promising catalytic processes for methane transformation via non-oxidative coupling.

Degassing methods and means analysis of mine workings and methane utilization to improve site degassing efficiency in the Western Donbas mines

Purpose. To analyze the methods and means of degassing excavation workings and methane utilization to improve the efficiency of site degassing in the Western Donbas mines. Research methodology. An integrated approach was used to achieve this goal including the analysis of existing geomechanical factors and the disclosure of the mechanism of their influence on gas production in underworked rock massif in the Western Donbas condition. Research results. The methods and means of degassing excavation areas and methane utilization were analyzed. The analysis showed satisfactory degassing efficiency with the prospect of extracting a methane-air mixture with a methane concentration of 25–45%, which creates conditions for the development of methane utilization by combustion in cogeneration units for the production of heat and electricity. At the same time, the analysis of modern research on methods and means of area degassing has proved the existence of significant reserves for increasing its efficiency by choosing rational parameters of the technology of this process, taking into account the influence of geomechanical and technological factors. Scientific novelty. Methane capture with its discharge to the Earth surface is much safer and cheaper than diluting it with air and transporting it through mine workings it has been establishedfor the first time.This makes it possible to use methane to compensate for the costs of degassing processes with the active development of the so-called site degassing. The trends in the influence of geomechanical and technological factors on gas separation processes were determined for the first time. The ideas about the mechanism of overburden displacement in the mines of Western Donbas were further developed in terms of determining the zones of stratification and fracturing of roof rocks during coal seams mining. Practical value. The obtained results prove that determining the regularities of the influence of geomechanical and technological factors on the processes of gas emission should be based on the study of the degassing mechanism, modeling of this process and assessment of reliability based on the results of mine experiments, which will contribute to the development of underground coal mining.

Roles of oxygen in methane oxidation coupled denitrification in membrane biofilm reactors

With a focus on efficient and low-carbon wastewater treatment, methane driven denitrification has garnered significant attention. Membrane biofilm reactors (MBfRs) are commonly employed to enhance methane utilization. However, previous studies have identified the impact of unavoidable oxygen infiltration on reactor performances without specifying the critical oxygen threshold. In this study, two parallel CH4-MBfRs with different oxygen intakes were established for mutual control. Three different oxygen concentrations, namely 4.5 ± 0.4 mg/L, 1.7 ± 0.2 mg/L, and 0.1 ± 0.1 mg/L, were defined as Rich, Limited, and Poor-oxygen condition, respectively. Results revealed that the maximum denitrification rate in CH4-MBfRs occurred under Limited-oxygen condition (220 mg N/L/d), followed by Poor-oxygen (108.1 mg N/L/d) and Rich-oxygen (60.0 mg N/L/d) conditions. Notably, methane driven denitrification consistently resulted in short chain fatty acids (SCFAs) production. The maximum SCFAs accumulation of 664.5 mg/L was also observed under Limited-oxygen condition. Microbial community characterization showed that the biofilm was predominated by Pseudomonas, Paracoccus, Lentimicrobium, Arcanobacterium, and Proteiniphilum. Based on the known metabolism characteristics of these microorganisms, it was assumed that these denitrifiers and SCFAs producers contributed jointly to methane driven denitrification, potentially triggered by oxygen. The findings contribute to understanding the role of oxygen in methane oxidation-coupled denitrification.

A technique for detecting hydrogen and methane using refractive index sensitivity

Hydrogen and methane, as lightweight, high-energy fuels, occupy an important position in energy utilization and industrial production, and have broad application prospects. The safe extraction and production of new energy gases, as well as the safe utilization of hydrogen and methane is increasingly essential. The problem of detecting the type and concentration of hydrogen and methane is very important. This paper proposed a multi-peak high performance metamaterial refractive index sensor to fulfill the research gap for hydrogen or methane detection. We made unique designs on the patterns of the metasurface and made innovative combinations of materials. Through discussing different shapes and geometrical parameters, we get an optimal structure with a perfect absorption state, high sensitivity, and polarization independence. In the near-infrared spectral range spanning from 1700 nm to 2600 nm, resonance peaks were observed in the absorption spectrum at wavelengths of 1738.27 nm, 1843.17 nm, and 2368.13 nm. These peaks exhibited absorption rates respectively are 99.28 %, 89.71 %, and 99.69 %. The high sensitivity of the sensor under different environmental refractive indices was up to 715.43 nm/RIU. This leads to more precise and reliable identification of hydrogen and methane. The polarization dependence of our structure ensures consistent results under light illumination from various angles. This feature enhances the convenience of using it in both production and daily life, with fewer constraints and more accurate outcomes. The possible applications of this study lie in detecting the presence of hydrogen and methane gases, the exploration and extraction of new energy gases, as well as to monitoring and alarm systems for hydrogen and methane leaks. Moreover, it can serve as a validation system for the results of hydrogen and methane production processes. These applications are of significant importance for environmental protection and process safety.

Production of Valuable Methanol from Hazardous Methane: Advances in the Catalysis

Abstract: Being a greenhouse gas, methane is a threat to biodiversity. Hence, the utilization of methane by converting it into a valuable chemical like methanol is one of the most promising re-actions. To solve that problem, a large number of studies have been performed on methane-to-methanol conversion (MTM process). Still, to date, the production of methanol from methane on an industry scale is a crucial challenge. After a thorough study, in this review article, only those reported methods, which produce a satisfactory yield of methanol using a large variety of cata-lysts like natural, heterogeneous, non-thermal plasma, nanoparticles fixed in solid bed, etc., have been briefly discussed. To investigate minutely, the reason behind the inefficiency of each type of catalyst in producing methanol on a large scale has been analyzed, and a comparison among the activities of different catalysts has been made. Herein, catalysts with comparatively better ef-ficiency under ambient temperature and pressure have also been highlighted. With the hope of producing methanol on a large scale, some basic concepts of future planning strategies for de-signing more suitable reaction systems are also proposed in this study

European Climate Policy in the Context of the Problem of Methane Emissions from Coal Mines in Poland

This paper presents a thorough examination of methane capture from Polish coal mines, contextualized within the framework of the European Union’s (EU) climate policy objectives. Through a strategic analysis encompassing the interior of coal mines, the surrounding environment, and the macro environment, this study elucidates the complex dynamics involved in methane emissions and capture initiatives. The key findings include a declining trend in absolute methane emissions since 2008, despite fluctuations in coal extraction volumes, and a relatively stable level of methane capture exceeding 300 million m3/year since 2014. The analysis underscores the critical role of government support, both in terms of financial incentives and streamlined regulatory processes, to facilitate the integration of methane capture technologies into coal mining operations. Collaboration through partnerships and stakeholder engagement emerges as essential for overcoming resource competition and ensuring the long-term success of methane capture projects. This paper also highlights the economic and environmental opportunities presented by methane reserves, emphasizing the importance of investment in efficient extraction technologies. Despite these advancements, challenges persist, particularly regarding the low efficiency of current de-methanation technologies. Recommendations for modernization and technological innovation are proposed to enhance methane capture efficiency and utilization.

A Comprehensive Study on Methane Adsorption Capacities and Pore Characteristics of Coal Seams: Implications for Efficient Coalbed Methane Development in the Soma Basin, Türkiye

This study represents a comprehensive assessment of methane adsorption capacity and pore characteristics for the coal seams of the Soma Basin in Western Türkiye, with a focus on their implications for coalbed methane potential. Twenty-one exploration wells were utilized to obtain coal samples from the kP1 and kM2 coal seams in the Kınık coalfield of the Soma Basin. High-pressure methane adsorption experiments using the indirect gravimetric method were conducted to quantify the storage capacities of these coal seams. Results revealed a wide range of methane adsorption capacities, ranging from 10.5 to 28.3 m3/t (air-dry basis), indicating significant methane storage potential for the kP1 and kM2 coal seams. The gas contents, ranging from 1.1 to 4.3 m3/t (as-received basis), suggested that the coal seams were undersaturated. Low-pressure N2/CO2 adsorption tests, along with standard proximate and gross calorific value analyses, were performed to investigate the influence of coal quality and pore characteristics on methane adsorption capacities. The findings demonstrated correlations between coal quality parameters and adsorption capacity, with ash yield showing a moderately negative correlation and fixed carbon content and gross calorific values exhibiting moderately positive correlations. Microporosity was identified as the critical factor governing methane adsorption, with a strong positive correlation observed between micropore surface areas and volumes and adsorption capacity. These results highlight the significant methane storage capacities of the coal seams in the Soma Basin and underscore the importance of micropores in determining methane adsorption capacity. The findings provide valuable insights for optimizing methane extraction and utilization in the region and offer important considerations for reservoir characterization and development strategies in similar low-rank coal deposits.HighlightsExtensive evaluation of methane adsorption and pore characteristics in Soma Basin coals, uncovering substantial potential for coalbed methane.The study reveals a diverse range of methane adsorption capacities, indicating highly promising methane storage capabilities.Correlation between coal quality parameters and methane adsorption, offering valuable insights into gas storage influenced by coal composition.Emphasis on the crucial role of micropores in methane storage, underscoring their significance as primary adsorption sites.Practical implications for optimizing methane extraction and utilization, guiding reservoir development in low-rank coal deposits like Soma Basin.