Isomerization

Isomerization, along with Catalytic Reforming and Alkylation, constitutes one of the processes used to enhance the octane number of gasoline by transforming straight-chain (n-paraffinic) hydrocarbons (C4-C6) into their branched (iso) counterparts. The isomerization unit operates within a relatively straightforward, hydrocarbon-dominant process environment, where HCl and caustic eventually act as the primary corrosive agents.