Production of H2 and C2 hydrocarbons from methane in a proton conducting solid electrolyte cell using a Au–5Ce–5Na2WO4/SiO2 anode

A novel approach of upgrading methane towards the simultaneous production/separation of H2 and C2 hydrocarbons (ethane and ethylene), is developed. The reaction system was studied in a solid state proton (H+) conducting cell. Mixtures of methane, steam (and oxygen) were introduced over the anode, while an inert gas flowed over the cathode. Under open-circuit, the reacting mixture produced H2, C2H6, C2H4, CO and CO2. Under closed-circuit and when protons (H+) were electrochemically “pumped” from the anode to the cathode, a considerable increase in the production of H2 was observed while the production of C2 compounds remained essentially unaffected.

► 5Ce–5Na2WO4/SiO2–Au was an adequate anode for H2/C2 production from CH4.
► Up to 45% of produced H2 was separated and transported to the cathode.
► A positive effect of current on the production of H2 was observed.