Linear Alpha Olefins are also called normal alpha olefins (NAOs). They are straight-chain terminal alkenes with the chemical formula CnH2n. Furthermore, they have a double bond at the alpha position and an unbranched hydrocarbon chain. Manufacturers produce them primarily through ethylene oligomerization. This process yields even-numbered carbon chain lengths from C4 to C30+. Moreover, their linear structure gives them superior reactivity. In addition, they offer better biodegradability than branched higher olefins in downstream applications.
Propriedades Principais
LAOs are reactive and versatile due to their high purity, defined linear structure and low levels of branching. Their terminal double bond enables a wide range of chemical transformations including polymerization, hydroformylation, sulfonation and oligomerization, making them essential building blocks across multiple industrial value chains.
Applications by Carbon Chain Length
The applications of LAOs vary significantly by chain length. The lower carbon numbers — 1-butene, 1-hexene and 1-octene — are overwhelmingly used as comonomers in the production of polyethylene, with HDPE using approximately 2–4% and LLDPE using 8–10% comonomers respectively. 1-Decene (C10) is the main ingredient for polyalphaolefins (PAOs), which are high-quality synthetic lubricants widely used in automotive and industrial applications. C12 to C16 LAOs are used in fatty alcohols, alcohol ethoxylates and alpha-olefin sulfonates for detergents and personal care products.
LAOs vs Branched Higher Olefins
Linear Alpha Olefins are characterized by their unbranched chain structure, which distinguishes them from the branched higher olefins (such as nonene, tetramer and pentamer) also available in the Equilex product range. This linear structure is key to their performance as polyethylene comonomers and biodegradable surfactant precursors.
Porquê Equilex?
Equilex supplies a reliable range of Linear Alpha Olefins sourced from leading petrochemical producers, ensuring consistent purity, full REACH compliance and flexible supply solutions for industrial customers worldwide.
