Olefin Isomerization Summary

Olefin isomerization reactions range from some of the most facile using acid catalysts to moderately difficult and, as components of more complex reaction schemes such as catalytic cracking, may be among the most common reactions in hydrocarbon processing. As stand-alone reactions, they are primarily used to shift the equilibrium between terminal and internal olefins or the degree of branching of the olefin. While olefin isomerization was considered for the production of MTBE, today stand-alone olefin isomerization processes are only considered for a few special situations within a petrochemical complex. 

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Before discussing hydrocyanation chemistry we will explore the interaction of zero-valent nickel phosphite complexes with various independent components of the catalytic system. Then, in turn, we will examine the catalyzed addition of HCN to butadiene, the isomerization of olefins, and the addition of HCN to monoolefins. Finally, a summary of the mechanism as it is now understood will be presented. 

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