Electrochemical reactor for upgrading methane and small alkanes to longer alkanes and alkenes
US11591699B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 12, 2019 |
| Grant date | Feb 28, 2023 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 1, 2039 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY02E60/50
- WIPO fieldSurface technology, coating
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
This application relates to new process that utilizes electrodes that incorporate acids that facilitate upgrading of methane and other low molecular weight alkanes to higher order hydrocarbon molecules, such as paraffins, olefins, and aromatics, at temperatures less than 250° C. A primary focus of the invention includes methane conversion to ethylene. The first step of the process includes acid containing electrodes that facilitate the activation of the alkane in the anode layer of the electrochemical reactor. Subsequent steps include the separation of protons from produced longer chain hydrocarbons followed by subsequent electrochemical reduction of the protons to yield hydrogen at the cathode or protons combined with oxygen at the cathode to yield water. The reaction steps in the anode upgrade methane to higher order hydrocarbon products.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.