[Chemical Knowledge]：Properties, uses, upstream and downstream raw materials, storage methods of diisobutylene, isobutylene butadiene

Diisobutylene properties

Diisobutylene (Diisobutylene,DIB) is an unsaturated hydrocarbon with the formula C8H16. It is the product of the dimerization of isobutylene and exists mainly in two isomeric forms: 3,4-dimethyl-1-pentene and 2,4, 4-trimethyl-1-pentene. Diisobutylene is highly volatile and flammable, in the form of a colorless liquid with a slight hydrocarbon odor. It has a boiling point of about 108-111°C and a density of 0.75-0.77g/cm³, and is insoluble in water but soluble in most organic solvents. The molecular structure of diisobutylene makes it have high chemical reactivity, especially with oxygen, chlorine and other substances.

Diisobutylene use

Diisobutylene is widely used in industry, mainly for the production of various chemical products. Diisobutylene is an important intermediate for the synthesis of specialty chemicals, such as antioxidants, lubricant additives and plastic additives. It is also used in the preparation of polyisobutylene, an important rubber and sealing material. Diisobutylene is a precursor for the preparation of surfactants and detergents. Due to its good combustion performance, it is also used as a high-energy fuel component. Diisobutylene plays an important role in the chemical industry chain, especially in the field of fine chemicals and specialty chemicals.

Upstream raw materials

The production of diisobutene depends mainly on isobutene (Isobutene). Isobutene is an important light hydrocarbon and can be obtained through many ways, such as petroleum pyrolysis gas separation and refinery by-product gas separation. Diisobutylene is formed by dimerization reaction, which can be carried out under the action of acid catalyst (such as sulfuric acid or solid acid). In order to ensure the continuity and efficiency of production, the purity and supply stability of isobutene are essential. Thus, upstream industries include oil refineries and natural gas processing plants, which provide high purity isobutene as a basic feedstock for the production of diisobutene.

Downstream Products

As an intermediate, diisobutylene is involved in the manufacture of many downstream products. One of the most important applications is the preparation of polyisobutylene (PIB), a synthetic rubber with high oxidation and UV resistance, which is widely used in sealants, adhesives and lubricants. Diisobutylene is used in the synthesis of antioxidants, such as the antioxidant BHT(Butylated Hydroxytoluene), which is widely used in the plastics and rubber industries to extend the service life of products. Other downstream products include surfactants, detergents and high-performance fuel additives. The role of diisobutylene in these applications fully demonstrates its versatility and importance as a chemical intermediate.

Production process

The process for the production of diisobutylene mainly comprises the dimerization of isobutylene. This reaction is usually carried out in the presence of an acid catalyst, and commonly used catalysts include sulfuric acid, fluorosilicic acid and solid acid catalysts. The reaction temperature is generally controlled at 50-100 ° C. and the pressure is normal or slightly higher. In order to improve the yield and selectivity, the temperature and pressure in the reaction process need to be precisely controlled to avoid the formation of by-products. The diisobutylene produced by the reaction needs to be separated and purified, and the common methods include distillation and extraction to obtain high purity products. Advanced process design and automatic control system can improve production efficiency and product quality, and reduce production costs.

storage method

Due to the high volatility and flammability of diisobutylene, its storage requires special attention to safety measures. Diisobutylene should be stored in a cool, well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight and high temperatures. Storage containers are usually steel tanks or pressure tanks, and should be equipped with explosion-proof devices and fire protection systems. Storage tanks shall be kept closed to prevent gas leakage and volatilization. The storage area should be equipped with emergency treatment equipment, such as fire extinguishers and leakage emergency treatment equipment, to ensure timely and effective control and treatment in emergency situations. Regularly inspect and maintain storage facilities to prevent equipment aging and damage, and ensure the safety and stability of the storage process.

Environment and Safety

The production and use of diisobutylene may cause certain environmental risks and safety hazards. Its volatility and flammability require strict operating procedures and safety management measures. The leaked diisobutylene vapor may affect the air quality, so it is necessary to set up a good ventilation system and gas detection instrument to monitor the concentration of diisobutylene in the air in real time. Exhaust gas and wastewater treatment facilities should operate effectively to prevent pollutant emissions. Factory employees shall receive professional safety training and master emergency handling skills to ensure that effective measures can be taken quickly in the event of an accident. Enterprises are required to comply with relevant environmental regulations and safety standards, conduct regular environmental impact assessments and safety inspections, and continuously improve environmental protection and safety management systems.

Market Prospects

The market demand for diisobutylene is closely related to the development of downstream industries. With the continuous development of specialty chemicals, synthetic rubber and high-performance fuels, the market demand for diisobutylene is expected to continue to grow. Especially in emerging market countries, the acceleration of industrialization and urbanization will promote the demand for chemical products. The development of environmental protection and energy-saving technologies will also promote the application of diisobutylene in the field of clean energy and environmentally friendly materials. Enterprises need to pay attention to market dynamics, optimize production processes, improve product quality, and expand application areas to respond to market competition and changes.

Conclusion

Diisobutylene, as an important chemical intermediate, has a variety of excellent properties and a wide range of uses. In the production process, the supply of upstream raw materials and the demand for downstream products have an important impact on its market development. Strict safety management and environmental protection measures are required during storage and handling. With the continuous development of downstream industries and technological progress, the market prospect of diisobutylene is broad. Enterprises need to constantly innovate and improve to enhance competitiveness and meet the growing market demand. Through scientific management and efficient production process, diisobutylene will continue to play an important role in the chemical industry.