Isomerization of 1-Butene to 2-Butenes in the Presence of Acid-Base Catalysts

Abstract

The possibility of reaching the equilibrium in structural isomerization of 1-butene on acid-base catalysts in the temperature interval 20–100°C was examined. This reaction can be used for increasing the 2-butene yield and the selectivity of the subsequent conversion of the isomer mixture obtained to alkylate or methyl ethyl ketone. Amberlyst 15 and HZSM-5 (Si/Al = 11.5) are the most active, with the activity of HZSM-5 increasing with the Al content. MgO and γ-Al₂O₃ are poorly active. HY zeolites exhibit high initial activity but undergo rapid deactivation. No deactivation of Amberlyst 15 was observed.