Technology Type

Isomerization Processes are used to Isomerize n-Butane to iso-Butane used in Alkylation and C₅/C₆ n-Paraffins in Light Naphtha to the corresponding iso-Paraffins to produce high-octane number Gasoline Stocks after the adoption of lead-free Gasoline.

Catalytic Isomerization Processes that use Hydrogen have been developed to operate under moderate conditions.

Typical Feedstocks for Isomerization Process include Hydrotreated Light Straight-Run Naphtha, Light Natural Gasoline, or Condensate. The fresh C₅/C₆ Feed combined with make-up and recycled Hydrogen is directed to a Heat Exchanger for heating the Reactants to reaction temperature. Hot Oil or High-Pressure Steam can be used as the heat source in this Exchanger. The heated Feed is sent to the Reactor. Typical Isomerate product (C₅₊) yields are 97 wt% of the Fresh Feed, and the Product octane number ranges from 81 to 87, depending on the flow configuration and Feedstock properties.