Hydrotreated kerosene is a typical feedstock for high-purity linear paraffins (N-paraffins), which are subsequently converted to linear olefins by dehydrogenation.
CnH2n+2 → CnH2n + H2
Alternatively, ethylene can be oligomerized (partially polymerized) to produce linear alkenes. The resulting linear monoolefins react with benzene in the presence of a catalyst to produce linear alkylbenzene (labsa) .
Hydrogen fluoride (HF) and aluminum chloride (AlCl3) are the two main catalysts for the alkylation of benzene with linear monoolefins. The production process using hydrogen fluoride is economically more affordable and is usually used more often.
However, the risk of hydrogen fluoride being released as a toxic substance into the environment has become a concern, especially after the amendment of the Clean Air Act. In 1995, a solid catalyst system (DETAL process) became available. This method eliminates the process of catalyst neutralization and HF disposal. As a result, most linear alkylbenzene plants built since then use this process.
Applications of LINEAR ALIKYL BENZENE
Linear alkylbenzene is sulfonated to produce linear alkylbenzene sulfonate (sulfonic acid), which is a degradable surfactant.
LAS are replaced by branched dosidylbenzene sulfonate due to the low decomposition rate. Linear alkylbenzene is recognized as an important material due to its good optical transparency measured by an SNO neutrino detector.
High light performance, low amount of radioactive impurities, and its high ignition point (140 degrees Celsius) have made this material to be in a good condition in terms of work safety. Also, linear alkylbenzene is available in very high quantities and also at reasonable prices.
Biological considerations
Linear alkylbenzene has been concerned due to its impact on the environment and human health
sUMMERY
Linear alkylbenzene is used as an intermediate in the production of surfactants, especially linear alkylbenzene or sulfonic acid. This surfactant is finally used in the production of many industrial and household detergents such as dishwashing liquid, laundry liquid, car wash shampoo, degreasers, motor washers, stain removers and scale removers.
