Modern Trends in the Processing of Linear Alpha Olefins into Technologically Important Products: Part I

Linear alpha olefins (LAO) are a class of chemical compounds used in the production of such high-demand products as plasticizers, synthetic lubricants, surfactants, and co-polymers with improved performance. The world consumption of LAO derivatives grows annually, as does the role of LAO processing by scientific institutions, universities, and research departments of commercial companies. Analysis of the scientific literature of the last ten years revealed no general reviews of LAO processing. This work describes recent trends in the processing of LAOs that contain four or more carbon atoms into technologically important derivatives. It lists the main products obtained via LAO processing, along with the means of their production and applications. Existing technological processes for the production of LAO derivatives and the catalysts that are used are considered briefly. Current trends in LAO processing and promising ways to improve existing technologies are described, including the development of new types of catalysts. This review does not claim to be exhaustive, since its main purpose is to give a general idea of the major trends in LAO processing, the catalysts used in these processes, and current ways of improving them.