Abstract: Aspects of the invention are associated with the discovery of processes for converting methane (CH 4), present in a methane-containing feed that may be obtained from a variety of sources such as natural gas, to higher hydrocarbons (e.g., C2+ hydrocarbons) such as C2 hydrocarbons (e.g., ethane, ethylene, and acetylene) and aromatic hydrocarbons (e.g., benzene, one or more C1- or C2-substituted benzenes, and/or one or more fused ring aromatic hydrocarbons). Representative processes involve direct, non-oxidative methane conversion (NOMC), such that the need for an oxidant to form CO as an intermediate may advantageously be avoided. This reduces overall complexity and the tendency to promote unwanted side reactions that reduce hydrocarbon yields and lead to CO2 production.

Abstract: According to this disclosure, there is provided a pyrolysis reaction system and a direct non-oxidative methane coupling process using the same by which it is possible to reach the selectivity for good C?10 hydrocarbons and at the same time to inhibit coke from being generated while a good methane conversion is maintained during direct conversion of methane into C2+ hydrocarbons through non-oxidative pyrolysis.

Abstract: According to this disclosure, there is provided a pyrolysis reaction system and a direct non-oxidative methane coupling process using the same by which it is possible to reach the selectivity for good C?10 hydrocarbons and at the same time to inhibit coke from being generated while a good methane conversion is maintained during direct conversion of methane into C2+ hydrocarbons through non-oxidative pyrolysis.