A Cooperative Research Effort Between the National Laboratories and the U.S. Auto Industry Alkanes, especially methane, are abundant, relatively unreactive chemicals. They represent a valuable but as yet untapped source of chemical feedstocks. Alkylate has high octane and low vapor pressure, which allow lower-cost butane to be used in gasoline. Light olefins are produced from catalytic crackers, cokers, and visbreakers. Unfortunately, current akylation catalysts are based on HF and H2SO4,highly toxic and corrosive compounds.
Research concentrates on finding a safer catalyst system.