Assessment of the possibility of the methane to methanol transformation

The methane to methanol conversion via esterification is an interesting method which makes it possible to eliminate the otherwise necessary phase of obtaining synthesis gas. On the basis of laboratory investigations mass balances for this process were determined. Preliminary assessment of the way of conducting the process and possibilities of practical applications of this technology was also made. It was pointed out that regardless of any possible modifications of methane to methanol conversion via esterification redundant sulfuric acid will always be produced during ester hydrolysis. Production of methanol from methane using this method can only be done when it is combined with producing other substances, which needs using H2SO4.