Pd(OAc)2 and chloranil-catalyzed oxidation of low-concentration coal mine gases to methanol

A self-made experimental system was used to study the catalytic oxidation of low-concentration coal mine gases to methanol in acetic acid solution. With Pd(OAc)2 as catalyst, addition of p-benzoquinone or chloranil in the reaction system provides a beneficial environment for activation of methane, and chloranil shows a more positive effect. Chloranil amount and reaction temperature and pressure are the key factors influencing the catalytic properties. The target product yield has a positive relationship with these three factors. CH3OH is formed from the reaction of generated H2O2 and CH4. CH3COOCH3 is generated via two routes; one is direct oxidation of Pd2+ and CH4, the other is esterification of CH3OH and CH3COOH.