Core Viewpoint - The Hainan University Marine Clean Energy Innovation Team has developed a new catalytic system that significantly advances the direct catalytic conversion of methane, providing a technology solution with independent intellectual property rights for the local utilization of combustible ice resources in China [2][3]. Group 1: Technological Breakthroughs - The new catalytic system utilizes a nano-scale palladium (Pd) catalyst that can precisely identify and activate methane molecules, achieving a methanol selectivity of 99.7%, which is close to "zero loss" conversion [3]. - The entire conversion process operates at a low temperature of only 70°C, greatly reducing future industrial production energy consumption and safety risks, indicating high commercial application potential and economic value [3]. Group 2: Strategic Implications - This breakthrough allows for the efficient and low-cost conversion of combustible ice extracted from the South China Sea into clean methanol fuel in Hainan, which can further be transformed into high-value products such as new materials and specialty fibers [3]. - The advancement is expected to significantly enhance China's energy security and position Hainan as a global hub for deep-sea energy development and utilization technology [3]. Group 3: Future Directions - The team plans to continue promoting the industrialization of green catalytic technology, providing scientific support for carbon neutrality policies and aiming for a full-chain innovation from laboratory to industry [3].

Core Viewpoint - The innovative team from Hainan University has achieved a groundbreaking breakthrough in the direct catalytic conversion of methane, which could significantly enhance energy security in China by converting abundant natural gas hydrate resources into high-value methanol fuel [1][3]. Group 1: Technological Breakthrough - The new catalytic system developed by the team demonstrates nearly 100% selectivity, achieving a methanol selectivity of 99.7%, indicating almost "zero loss" in the conversion process [3]. - The entire conversion process operates at a low temperature of only 70°C, making future industrial production safer, more energy-efficient, and environmentally friendly [3]. Group 2: Economic and Environmental Impact - The ability to efficiently and cost-effectively convert "combustible ice" from the South China Sea into clean methanol fuel is expected to significantly improve China's energy security [3].