1001.    ---------------.  [Partial Combustion of Methane at Various Pressures With Particular Consideration of Accompanying Acetylene Formation.]  Brennstoff-Chem., vol. 11, 1930, pp. 501-507; Chem. Abs., vol. 25, 1931, p. 796.

       By use of CH₄-air, CH₄-O₂ and coal gas-O₂ mixtures in various proportions with various flow-rates, temperatures, and pressures, the decomposition of CH₄ has been determined and is shown in tabulated analyses and graphs.  A heated porcelain tube passing the gas-air mixtures is used for the low pressures and a bomb for the high pressures.  The arrangement and construction are given in diagrams.  The importance of time and temperature is demonstrated.  A primary formation of –CH and –OH radicals is followed by a secondary decomposition into CO and H₂, making the prompt removal of the C₂H₂ necessary for recovery.  These reactions may be accelerated by large catalytic surfaces.  Yields of C₂H₂ as high as 50-60% of the CH₄ used have been obtained over a temperature range of 600°-1,500°.  The rest of the CH₄ in burning to CO and H₂O furnishes the necessary heat of formation for the C₂H₂.  The use of diminished pressure does not materially increase C₂H₂ formation but does retard the secondary decomposition.  Explosion pressures do not produce greater yields.  Oxidation and decomposition reactions of CH₄ are briefly discussed.