초록 ▼

A method and apparatus for the conversion of methane in solution or gas provides photochemical conversion in a unique two-phase or three-phase boundary system formed in each pore of a semiconductor membrane in a photocatalytic reactor. In a three-phase system, gaseous oxidant, methane contained in a

A method and apparatus for the conversion of methane in solution or gas provides photochemical conversion in a unique two-phase or three-phase boundary system formed in each pore of a semiconductor membrane in a photocatalytic reactor. In a three-phase system, gaseous oxidant, methane contained in a liquid, and solid semiconductor photocatalyst having a metal catalyst disposed thereon meet and engage in an efficient conversion reaction. The porous membrane has pores which have a region wherein the meniscus of the liquid varies from the molecular diameter of water to that of a capillary tube resulting in a diffusion layer that is several orders of magnitude smaller than the closest known reactors.

대표청구항 ▼

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] A process comprising the steps of:providing methane over a photocatalyst disposed on a first surface of a porous substrate having pores extending therethrough to a second surface;providing a reactant to the second surface and through the pores of the substrate into contac

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] A process comprising the steps of:providing methane over a photocatalyst disposed on a first surface of a porous substrate having pores extending therethrough to a second surface;providing a reactant to the second surface and through the pores of the substrate into contact with the photocatalyst on the first surface; anddirecting light onto the photocatalyst, wherein the light is selected from visible light, ultraviolet light and mixtures thereof.