Methane reactions were examd. in CH4 + Ar and CH4 + CO2 + Ar mixts. at ambient temp. and 300 degreesC in barrier discharges (50 Hz) in relation to discharge gap packing material 1-2 mm type: (I) quartz glass, (II) Ba titanate condenser-grade ceramics, (III) broad-pore silica get, and (IV) Fe (3%)/SiO2, With I and III, the reactions were faster by 40-50% and, with II and IV, slower than the reaction run in the unpacked reactor With IV, more unsatd. C-2's were formed. Discharge conditions were practically unaffected by the packing materials (except for IV).