Clean conversion of methanol to high octane components on ZnI2 catalyst

The effect of methanol conversion on the content of each high octane constituent over ZnI2 catalyst has been investigated in a batch reactor. The results showed that isoparaffins were dominant products in this reaction. Among these, the selectivity of 2,2,3-trimethylbutane (triptane) reached up to 30%. The reactions of methanol with higher alcohols or olefins were favorable to the oil yields, especially with higher alcohols. Yields increased by 200% for total oil and 88% for triptane by adding 25wt% isopentanol, respectively. The trimethylpentene, which can be hydrogenated to produce isooctane, was also produced by adding tertbutanol. Both triptane and isooctane are ideal components for modern unleaded aviation gasoline because of their high octane ratings.