[1] This location of a double bond enhances the reactivity of the compound and makes it useful for a number of applications.
A whole other approach to alpha-olefins, especially long chain derivatives, involves cracking of waxes:[2] In the PACOL process (paraffin conversion to olefins), linear alkanes are dehydrogenated over a platinum-based catalyst.
A major portion of medium or long chain derivatives are converted to detergents and plasticizers.
Long chain alpha-olefins are also oligomerized to give medium molecular weight oils that serve as lubricants.
Alkylation of benzene with alpha-olefins followed by ring-sulfonation gives linear alkylbenzene sulfonates (LABS) which are biodegradable detergents.