2617. ------. [PATART, G.] [Production of Alcohols From Methane.] French Patent 593,650, Feb. 7, 1925. British Chem. Abs., 1927, B, p. 346.

CH₄ mixed with 1/2 its vol. of O₂ is passed over coke or other combustible fuel at 800°-1,000°. The gas mixture is preheated to avoid any condensation or any fluctuation in temperature. The gaseous product, consisting of about 2 vol. H₂:1 vol. CO, is then converted into alcohols by the action of suitable catalysts at high temperatures and under pressure. CH₄ formed as byproduct is separated and utilized.