Brief overview of the partial oxidation of methane to synthesis gas

A review of the main developments in the partial oxidation of methane to synthesis gas since the first paper in 1929 to the present day is given. The reaction is discussed from the view of the thermodynamics; the main catalysts studied for the reaction are summarised, and the reaction mechanism is discussed. The review is not comprehensive, but it is designed to provide a general background to the most important developments in the field.