Insights Into the Light-Driven Conversion of Methane: Mechanisms, Characterization, and Perspective

Abstract

Methane, recognized as a promising substitute for conventional fossil fuels due to its abundant availability, low cost, and high energy density, can be converted into value-added products, providing a sustainable energy–carbon utilization approach. However, its inert molecules require significant energy for C–H bond activation. Photocatalytic conversion offers an effective mild-condition solution, reducing thermocatalysis energy demands and enhancing activation efficiency for selective chemical production. This review systematically arranges photocatalytic C–H bond activation mechanisms, categorizes conversion products, and discusses challenges, prospects, and solutions for methane photocatalysis development.