Direct aromatization of methane. Quarterly technical progress report No. 9, October 1, 1994--December 31, 1994

Further experiments have been performed on the assisted pyrolysis by the addition of a free-radical initiator, as well as on the initiation of pyrolysis by a solid surface using a variety of catalysts. The reaction has been studied in the temperature range of 850-1100{degrees}C, methane flow rates of 475-1000 Scc/min, and ethane flow rates of 21-42 Scc/min. Significant reduction in the pyrolysis temperature was observed in both cases, with measurable amounts of methane being converted at temperatures as low as 850{degrees}C. When ethane was added as a free-radical initiator, the major pyrolysis products were ethylene and propylene at temperatures below 950{degrees}C. At higher pyrolysis temperatures, the selectivity shifted toward benzene and acetylene which became the main analyzable products at 1050{degrees}C and 1100{degrees}C