2,2,4-Trimethylpentane: Properties, Production, and Applications

2,2,4-Trimethylpentane, also known as isooctane or iso-octane, is an organic compound with the formula (CH3)3CCH2CH(CH3)2. It is one of several isomers of octane (C8H18) and is the standard 100 point on the octane rating scale, which measures the ability of a fuel to resist knocking in a spark-ignition engine.

Physical and Chemical Properties

2,2,4-Trimethylpentane is a colorless liquid with a petroleum-like odor. It has a density of 0.692 g cm−3, a melting point of -107.38 °C, and a boiling point of 99.30 °C. The compound is flammable and has GHS labeling indicating various hazards, including flammability, aspiration hazard, skin irritation, and eye irritation.

Production

2,2,4-Trimethylpentane is produced on a massive scale in the petroleum industry by alkylation of isobutene with isobutane. This process is conducted in alkylation units in the presence of acid catalysts. It can also be produced from isobutylene by dimerization using an Amberlyst catalyst.

Applications

2,2,4-Trimethylpentane is an important component of gasoline and is frequently used in relatively large proportions (around 10%) to increase the knock resistance of fuel. It is also used as a solvent and in the production of other chemicals.

Conclusion

2,2,4-Trimethylpentane is a versatile hydrocarbon with a wide range of applications. Its unique properties make it a valuable component of gasoline and other fuels, as well as a useful solvent and intermediate in chemical synthesis.

References

1. 2,2,4-Trimethylpentane | C8H18 | CID 10907 – PubChem (https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/2_2_4-Trimethylpentane)
2. 2,2,4-Trimethylpentane – Wikipedia (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2,2,4-Trimethylpentane)
3. 2,2,4-Trimethylpentane | CAS 540-84-1 | SCBT – Santa Cruz Biotechnology (https://www.scbt.com/p/2-2-4-trimethylpentane-540-84-1)

FAQs

What is the molecular formula for 2,2,4-Trimethylpentane?

The molecular formula for 2,2,4-Trimethylpentane is C8H18.

What is the octane rating of 2,2,4-Trimethylpentane?

2,2,4-Trimethylpentane has an octane rating of 100, which is the highest possible rating.

What are the physical properties of 2,2,4-Trimethylpentane?

2,2,4-Trimethylpentane is a colorless liquid with a petroleum-like odor. It has a density of 0.692 g cm−3, a melting point of -107.38 °C, and a boiling point of 99.30 °C.

How is 2,2,4-Trimethylpentane produced?

2,2,4-Trimethylpentane is produced on a massive scale in the petroleum industry by alkylation of isobutene with isobutane. It can also be produced from isobutylene by dimerization using an Amberlyst catalyst.

What are the applications of 2,2,4-Trimethylpentane?

2,2,4-Trimethylpentane is an important component of gasoline and is frequently used in relatively large proportions (around 10%) to increase the knock resistance of fuel. It is also used as a solvent and in the production of other chemicals.

Is 2,2,4-Trimethylpentane flammable?

Yes, 2,2,4-Trimethylpentane is flammable and has a flash point of -12 °C (10 °F).

What are the hazards associated with 2,2,4-Trimethylpentane?

2,2,4-Trimethylpentane is classified as a hazardous substance and has GHS labeling indicating various hazards, including flammability, aspiration hazard, skin irritation, and eye irritation.

What are the environmental effects of 2,2,4-Trimethylpentane?

2,2,4-Trimethylpentane is a volatile organic compound (VOC) and can contribute to smog formation when released into the atmosphere. It is also toxic to aquatic organisms and can contaminate groundwater.