Synergistic photocatalysis-Fenton reaction for selective conversion of methane to methanol at room temperature

By combining the Fenton and photocatalytic reactions, the selective conversion of CH4 to CH3OH on TiO2 was significantly enhanced with solar light at room temperature. The yield and selectivity to methanol are up to 471 mu mol g(-1) h(-1) and 83%, respectively. The Fenton reaction favors the generation of radicals. Photocatalysis facilitates the closed cycle of catalysis and Fenton reagent restoration.