Heat removal during methane prepn - by catalytically reacting carbon monoxide and hydrogen in presence of volatilisable liquid medium

Methane is prepd. by the catalytic reaction of carbon monoxide and hydrogen, a part of the exothermal reaction heat being discharged by carrying out the reaction in the presence of a liquid heat absorption medium that is maintained in contact with the catalyst, and evaporates at the reaction temp. Gives more efficient heat removal, while maintaining a sufficiently high temp. to effect reaction at the desired velocity. Undesired side reactions, e.g. formation of metal carbonyl cpds. and reduction of catalyst activity are inhibited. Reaction is pref. effected at an effluent discharge temp. of 232-343 degrees C and a pressure of 30-100 atmos. using water as the heat absorption medium.