This project aims to evaluate methane-to-hydrogen pathways for CO₂-free hydrogen production and then focus on a microwave-plasma solution based on an Evenson cavity. First, we will survey and critically compare competing low-carbon or carbon-free methane conversion routes, emphasizing reaction mechanisms, energy efficiency, byproduct management especially solid carbon, and scalability. Next, we will design and model an Evenson-cavity microwave plasma reactor for methane decomposition to quantify how plasma operating conditions influence methane conversion and hydrogen yield by COSMOL. The core question is whether non-thermal plasma can activate methane at relatively low bulk temperatures, decouple energy input from reactor wall heating, and suppress CO₂ formation while enabling stable carbon handling. Ultimately, the work will clarify the design space for CO₂-free methane pyrolysis and advance a concrete reactor concept that could integrate with waste-methane and distributed hydrogen infrastructure.