Dimerization of isobutylene
Iso Octane (2,2,4-trimethyl pentane)
The constant increase in demand for liquid fuels is the driving force for
the petroleum industry. To satisfy high performing engines and more and
more strict exhaust emission standards, modern gasoline must meet exacting
specifications which can vary from country to country.
The Octane rating is one of the most known measures of gasoline quality. In order to achieve an acceptable octane number, oxygenates like MTBE, ETBE or TAME are added to gasoline to ensure clean combustion.
MTBE is by far the most important gasoline additive. Very recently discussions to replace MTBE with a less environmentally sensitive compound like Iso-octane have started in the US and the first installations have been put into operation in North America and Canada.
The common practice is to replace existing MTBE units with Iso-octane units.

Iso-octane through dimerisation of isobutylene
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Recommended Catalysts
For reactor loading and unloading or general questions around catalyst handling please consult our Frequently Asked Questions page.
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