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

Recommended Catalysts

Amberlyst™ 35Wet	Highest performing catalyst which has been developed for MTBE, ETBE and TAME production. Its novel acid functionality outperforms any other commercial catalysts in olefin conversion and catalyst life.
Amberlyst™ 36Wet	Highest performing catalyst which has been developed for MTBE, ETBE and TAME production. Its novel acid functionality outperforms any other commercial catalysts in olefin conversion and catalyst life. Different pore size distribution compared to Amberlyst 35Wet.

Amberlyst™ catalysts are approved by all major process licensors.

For sampling, pricing and availability of AMBERLYST™ catalysts please contact your Rohm and Haas sales representative.