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The interaction between methane, ozone (O₃), and hydroxyl radicals forms a complex and dynamic part of atmospheric chemistry. Feedback mechanisms suggest that small changes in atmospheric composition can significantly affect global methane concentrations. Factors like temperature, sunlight, and emissions of reactive gases, such as NOx, influence the strength of the methane feedback system. Moreover, as methane levels rise, more hydroxyl radicals are consumed, which could reduce the atmosphere’s capacity to remove pollutants.

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By targeting the O₃-to-OH pathway, we aim to reduce methane's overall atmospheric lifetime to help mitigate climate change. 

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Oxidative Down-Conversion of Methane via UV Generated Ozone and Hydroxyl Activation

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Our technology focuses on the oxidative “down-conversion”of methane (sometimes called “cracking”) into less harmful products like carbon dioxide and water (H₂O) using a dual-wavelength ultraviolet (UV) approach. This process utilizes off-the-shelf germicidal UV lamps that produce 185 nm UV light, which generates ozone, and 254 nm UV light, which catalyzes downstream reactions. (Together we call these “UVZ”.) 

The process begins with the generation of ozone when oxygen molecules (O₂) are dissociated by the high-energy 185 nm wavelength:

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O₂ + 185 nm → 2O

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O + O₂→O₃

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Once ozone is formed, the second step involves exposing it to 254 nm UV radiation. This triggers a chain of reactions that dissociate ozone, recreating molecular oxygen and reactive oxygen atoms (O). These oxygen atoms then react with water vapor in the air to produce hydroxyl radicals which are the key players in methane oxidation:

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O₃ + 254 nm UV→O₂ + O(¹D)

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O(¹D) + H₂O→2OH

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Once hydroxyl radicals are produced, they initiate the oxidation of methane through a series of reactions. The hydroxyl radical reacts with methane, abstracting a hydrogen atom and forming water and a methyl radical (CH₃):

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OH + CH₄→H₂O + CH₃

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The methyl radical then reacts with molecular oxygen, ultimately leading through a series of reactions to the formation of carbon dioxide and water again:

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This reaction chain down-converts the highly potent greenhouse gas methane, into carbon dioxide and water, drastically reducing its impact on climate change.

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