High reactivity of metal-free nitrogen-doped carbon nanotube for the C-H activation

► It was found that the N-C part of the nitrogen-doped carbon nanotube (NCNT) could be used as the active center in the methane C-H activation. ► The catalytic ability of the metal-free NCNT is comparable to these reported noble metal catalysts and enzyme. ► Both two O atoms of O2 can be effectively used as oxidant in the catalytic cycle of NCNT.