isobutüleeni

Isobutyleeni, also known as isobutene or 2-methylpropene, is an organic compound with the chemical formula C4H8. It is a colorless, flammable gas at room temperature and pressure. Isobutyleeni is one of the four isomers of butylene, distinguished by the position of the double bond and the branching of the carbon chain. It is a branched alkene with a double bond between the second and third carbon atoms.

Industrially, isobutyleeni is primarily produced as a byproduct of petroleum refining, specifically from fluid catalytic cracking (FCC) units. It can also be synthesized through the dehydration of tert-butyl alcohol or isobutane. Its reactivity, particularly the presence of the double bond, makes it a valuable intermediate in the petrochemical industry.

The major application of isobutyleeni is in the production of methyl tert-butyl ether (MTBE) and ethyl tert-butyl ether (ETBE), which are used as fuel additives to increase octane ratings and reduce emissions. However, concerns about groundwater contamination have led to a decrease in MTBE usage in some regions. Isobutyleeni is also a key monomer in the synthesis of polyisobutylene (PIB), a polymer used in lubricants, adhesives, sealants, and as a component in chewing gum. It is also used to produce isoprene, tert-butyl alcohol, and methacrylic acid.