Homogeneous Oligomerization

Dimersol-X™

Axens’ Dimersol-X™ process transforms butenes to octenes that are ultimately used in the manufacture of plasticizers via isononanol (isononyl alcohol), and diisononyl phthalate units. Butenes enter the Dimersol-X™ process, which comprises three sections: reactor, catalyst removal and separation.

As shown in the figure, in the reactor section, dimerization occurs in multiple liquid-phase reactors (1) employing homogeneous catalysis and an efficient recycle mixing system. Difasol reactor might be added in order to boost conversion and octene yield through use of ionic liquid. The catalyst is generated in situ by the reaction of components injected in the recycle loop.

The catalyst in the reactor effluent is then deactivated in the neutralization section and separated (2). Section (3) separates unreacted olefin monomer and saturates from the product dimers while the second column (4) separates the octenes. A third column can be added to separate dodecenes.

Dimersol-G™

Axens Solutions Dimersol-G™ process transforms light olefins fractions such as propylene to high quality gasoline called Dimate with low boiling point and high octane properties.

The C₃ feeds are generally the propylene cuts from fluid catalytic cracking units. The Dimersol-G™ process is suitable for isolated refineries without petrochemical outlet for propylene.