Microwave-driven transformations of methane and methane-containing mixtures in the presence of microwave-absorbing objects have been investigated. Application of pulse microwave (MW) power is shown to be a promising way for the production of hydrogen, syngas, acetylene and filament carbon. The influence of catalyst nature, MW-power and contact time on the reaction rate is analyzed. Two pathways for the studied reactions are found - a direct MW-heating of the whole catalyst (or its active centers) and a gas discharge near the rough catalyst surface.