CATALYSTS FOR THE OXIDATIVE CONVERSION OF METHANE TO HIGHER HYDROCARBONS
An oxidative coupling catalyst composition for converting methane to a higher hydrocarbon comprising a mixed oxide of: a) a Group IIIB metal selected from the group consisting of yttrium, scandium and lanthanum; b) a Group IIA metal selected from the group consisting of barium, calcium and strontium; and c) a Group IVA metal selected from the group consisting of tin, lead and germanium and wherein the cationic species are present in the approximate ratio of 1:0.5-3:2-4, respectively, and an improved process employing same.