The Mercury (3P1) Sensitized Decomposition of Normal and Iso-Butane at High Temperatures

Abstract

The mercury (³P₁) sensitized decomposition of normal and iso‐butane at high temperatures is described. The reactions of both hydrocarbons result in the formation of decomposition products of butyl radicals at temperatures above 250°C. In the case of normal butane this reaction gives methane, ethane, ethylene, and propylene; and with iso‐butane, only methane and butane. Activation energies are assigned to the various radical decomposition steps.