Photocatalytic conversion of ethane: status and perspective

Ethane (C2H6) is a main component of natural gas and a notable contributor to photochemical pollution and ozone production in the atmosphere. It is important to convert ethane to useful chemicals. The photocatalytic conversion of ethane is promising but challenging. As the first review article in this area, we summarize the recent important progresses in photocatalytic ethane conversion, with an emphasis on (1) homogeneously functionalization and (2) heterogeneously partial oxidation of ethane. Furthermore, the challenges and future directions are provided for the photocatalytic conversion of ethane.