2-Butene Double Bond Isomerization Catalyst for Producing 1-Butene

**Overview:**

1-Butene, a chemically active α-olefin, is a crucial raw material for the production of linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE), high-density polyethylene (HDPE), and polybutene. Since 2002, research has led to the successful development of butene double bond isomerization catalysts and a complete set of isomerization techniques, transforming less economically valuable 2-butene into high-value 1-butene. This not only boosts 1-butene production but also enhances the comprehensive utilization value of C4 hydrocarbons. The project boasts ten authorized Chinese invention patents covering catalysts, processes, and equipment, and has received one Shanghai Science and Technology Progress Award, one Sinopec科技进步奖 (China Petrochemical Corporation Science and Technology Progress Award), and one China Patent Excellence Award.

**Butene Double Bond Isomerization Comprehensive Technology:**

This butene isomerization technology excels with features including:

1. Compact process and minimal land use: Comprising reaction and separation sections, it occupies a small area. A 10,000-ton/year facility, for example, requires less than 800m², making it adaptable for installation within existing plants.

2. High product quality: The produced 1-butene exhibits high purity with minimal impurities, meeting downstream polymerization standards.

3. Versatile feedstock compatibility: Suitable for both coal chemical and petrochemical C4 feeds, with strong tolerance against impurities, often eliminating the need for additional feed pretreatment systems.

4. Low energy consumption: The plant design incorporates efficient heat recovery from high-temperature reaction products, reducing the demand for high-grade heat.

**Butene Isomerization Catalyst:**

Characteristics of the butene isomerization catalyst include:

1. High activity: Conversion of 2-butene in C4 mixtures can approach thermodynamic equilibrium conversion levels.

2. High selectivity: Minimal content of isobutene and 1,3-butadiene, which could compromise product quality. Product separation via distillation satisfies downstream requirements.

3. Robust stability: Lifespan exceeds two years.

4. Eco-friendliness: Free from harmful and corrosive components, posing no environmental pollution risks.

**Application and Dissemination:**

First applied industrially at Zhongyuan Petrochemical in 2009, a 20,000-ton/year butene isomerization unit was established in Shaanxi in 2016, which has operated stably for nearly four years. Subsequently, the complete technology package has been licensed to multiple enterprises.