Synthesis of mono- and dibranched α-olefins via elongation and branching by ethylene

The synthesis of branched α-olefins employing the diversely available and inexpensive feedstock ethylene is challenging. The recently reported elongation and branching reaction of α-olefins by two ethylene molecules and the identification of more selective catalysts for this reaction permit the multigram synthesis of mono- and dibranched α-olefins. We report here the synthesis of 4-ethyl-1-octene, 4-ethyl-1-decene and 4-ethyl-6-methyl-1-heptene. The key is the long-term stability of the catalyst employed.