1Octene

1-Octene, also known as oct-1-ene, is an alpha-olefin with eight carbons and a terminal double bond. Its structure is CH2=CH-(CH2)5-CH3, giving it the molecular formula C8H16. It is a colorless, flammable liquid at room temperature, insoluble in water and soluble in many organic solvents.

Industrial production is dominated by the Shell Higher Olefin Process (SHOP), which yields a mixture of alpha-olefins in the C4–C20 range; 1-octene is isolated from this mixture for use in downstream processes. Other catalytic routes exist, but SHOP remains the primary commercial source for alpha-olefins like 1-octene.

Uses of 1-octene include serving as a comonomer in the production of linear and low-density polyethylenes (LLDPE) to introduce short-chain branching, which improves mechanical properties and processability. It is also a versatile chemical building block used to prepare surfactants, lubricants, plasticizers, and various derivatives such as esters and alcohols.

Safety and handling: 1-Octene is flammable and its vapors can form explosive mixtures with air. It should be handled in well-ventilated areas with appropriate protective equipment, stored away from heat sources and oxidizers, and stabilized with polymerization inhibitors to prevent runaway polymerization during storage.