Catalytic Isomerization of n-Hexane by the Ternary Compound Mesitylene: HCL:2AICI3

Abstract

Equal volumes of n-hexane and mesitylene:HCL:2AICI3 when shaken together for 16 hours at 70°C yield some 6% hexane isomers (on n-hexane). No HC1 or other gas was formed. The resulting phases appeared to be stable. Mesitylene:HCL:2AICI3 is an active isomerization catalyst for paraffins.