izooktan

Izooktan is a chemical compound that is a branched-chain alkane. Its chemical formula is C8H18. It is one of the eighteen structural isomers of octane. Specifically, izooktan refers to 2,2,4-trimethylpentane. This specific isomer is highly valued in the petroleum industry for its anti-knock properties. It has a high octane rating, which is a measure of a fuel's resistance to knocking or pinging in an internal combustion engine. The octane rating scale is based on the performance of isooctane. By definition, pure isooctane is assigned an octane rating of 100.

2,2,4-trimethylpentane is a colorless liquid with a petroleum-like odor. It is flammable and is insoluble in water but soluble in organic solvents. It is a component of gasoline and is often blended with other hydrocarbons to achieve the desired octane rating for automotive fuels. The production of isooctane typically involves the alkylation of isobutane with olefins. This process is crucial for refining crude oil into usable gasoline. Its high stability and resistance to autoignition make it a benchmark for fuel quality.