Use of a supported aluminium chloride catalyst for the production of hydrocarbon resins

Immobilised aluminium chloride containing both strong Lewis and Bronsted acid sites is shown to be an active catalyst for the cationic polymerisation of C5 aliphatic refinery feed-streams. Particular attention is given to the improvement in the yield, the properties of resin obtained and the ability to control resin properties by changes in the precise nature of the catalyst. The use of this solid acid has resulted in a reduction in the unwanted and hazardous waste that is produced during conventional homogeneous processes. The stability of the active species on the support in a typical batch polymerisation reaction process has been determined, and particularly low leaching levels have been found.