In this paper, we study single-step natural gas conversion technologies that directly convert methane to olefins and higher hydrocarbons. Despite the relative simplicity of these technologies, the development of processes based on these approaches remains challenging. Accordingly, we utilize process synthesis and modeling to assess the economic feasibility of direct nonoxidative methane conversion strategies. We develop a flexible approach that allows for the systematic evaluation of various technology alternatives and for the identification of the key technology gaps that must be overcome. The results of our analyses demonstrate that an economically feasible direct methane conversion process is contingent upon fundamental research advances in the area of catalytic conversion to increase methane conversion to hydrocarbon products (e.g., coke formation less than 20% and a minimum conversion to products of 25%). Upon this development, further efforts can be devoted to improve ethylene selectivity as well as reduce catalyst cost and overall capital costs.

在本文中，我们研究了将天然气直接转化为烯烃和高级烃的单步天然气转化技术。尽管这些技术相对简单，但是基于这些方法的流程开发仍然具有挑战性。因此，我们利用过程综合和建模来评估直接非氧化甲烷转化策略的经济可行性。我们开发了一种灵活的方法，可以对各种技术替代方案进行系统评估，并确定必须克服的关键技术差距。我们的分析结果表明，在经济上可行的直接甲烷转化工艺取决于催化转化领域的基础研究进展，以增加甲烷向烃类产品的转化（例如，焦炭形成量少于20％，转化为产品的最低转化率则为25％）。随着这一发展，可以作出进一步的努力来改善乙烯的选择性以及降低催化剂成本和总投资成本。