Methane conversion into value-added chemicals such as alkanes, alcohols and other hydrocarbons represents an enduring attractive yet challenging topic in response to the global energy and environment crisis. Conventional thermocatalytic methane conversion suffers from harsh reaction conditions and intense energy consumption to push forward such transformation. In contrast, photocatalytic technology, featuring clean energy input, low energy consumption and unique reaction route, has shined light on the road to the conversion of methane. In this review, we present a concise overview of the typical photocatalytic processes for methane conversion over artificial photocatalysts, mainly including the non-oxidative coupling of methane (NOCM), the methane dry gas reforming (MDR), the partial oxidation of methane (POM) and methylation reaction. In particular, we discuss their performance in different reaction systems from the aspects of reaction mechanisms and catalyst design, aiming to acquire in-depth understanding of the light-driven methane conversion. Finally, the current challenges and future perspectives in this promising frontier of photocatalytic methane conversion are presented.

在应对全球能源和环境危机时，将甲烷转化为增值化学品，如烷烃、醇和其他碳氢化合物，是一个持久且具有挑战性的话题。传统的热催化甲烷转化反应条件苛刻，能源消耗大，推动这种转化。相比之下，光催化技术以其能源输入清洁、能耗低、反应路线独特等特点，为甲烷转化之路指明了方向。在这篇综述中，我们简要概述了人工光催化剂上甲烷转化的典型光催化过程，主要包括甲烷的非氧化偶联（NOCM）、甲烷干气重整（MDR）、甲烷的部分氧化（POM）。 ) 和甲基化反应。特别是，我们从反应机理和催化剂设计方面讨论了它们在不同反应体系中的性能，旨在深入了解光驱动甲烷转化。最后，介绍了这一光催化甲烷转化领域的当前挑战和未来前景。