Low temperature electrochemical activation of CH4. Annual Report (May 90 - May 91)

"An evaluation of the conversion of methane to oxygenates by electrochemical reduction of methane-oxygen mixtures is presented. A survey of the combustion kinetics literature was made to rank various initiators of methane reactions by means of rate constants and activation energies. Open circuit homogeneous reactions were monitored by high pressure liquid chromatography and gas chromatography. Ultraviolet spectrography was used to aid in identification and analysis of reaction products. In electrocatalytical reactions, catalysts were electroplated metals and teflon-bonded oxide powders. The research focused on auxiliary reactions that occur during a low temperature electrochemical process for partial oxidation of methane. The research has identified long-lived peroxide products from these reactions, suggesting that the underlying chemistry resembles higher temperature ""cool flame"" oxidative reactions of methane. Additional comments on key issues of research are presented in the appendix."