Statistical design and modeling of the process of methane partial oxidation using V-MCM-41 catalysts and the prediction of the formaldehyde production

As a simplified approach to optimize the production of formaldehyde from partial oxidation of methane, this paper illustrates the application of statistical multivariate analysis and prediction through a multi-regression model, as well as the optimization of the processing parameters in the complex reaction process. This approach is advantageous, especially when experimental evaluation and optimization of a process is time consuming and expensive. By carrying out a finite number of experiments, statistical modeling in this work shows reasonable good prediction ability in terms of methane conversion, formaldehyde selectivity, and space time yield (STY_HCHO). Moreover, not only are the synergistic effects between reaction parameters revealed, but also a comprehensive understanding of the whole production process over variation of the all reaction parameters (within the phase space represented by the experimental grid) are allowed.