Recent trends, current challenges and future prospects for syngas-free methane partial oxidation

An efficient route for selective methane functionalization to liquid products, such as methanol, without intermediate syngas production is an integral part of the movement toward greener chemical and fuel production from currently underutilized resource streams. This challenging chemistry has motivated grand scientific efforts in the study of C–H activation and highly selective active site motifs, yet substantial limitations inhibit the translation of these concepts into practical processes. Here we assess recent developments in methane partial oxidation from thermochemical, photochemical, electrochemical, and non-thermal plasma literature published within the past five years using quantitative performance indicators. Ultimately, the field of methane valorization is unlikely to surpass limiting barriers on its current trajectory. Comprehensive design and innovation that target the improvement of multiple metrics (yield, productivity, product concentration) simultaneously with the incorporation of product protection schemes are paramount, as outlined in a roadmap for concepts with high potential for implementation.