A relatively low molecular weight, mid-range vinylidene content PIB polymer product
and a process for making the same. At least about 90% of the PIB molecules present
in the product comprise alpha or beta position isomers. The vinylidene (alpha)
isomer content of the product may range from 20% to 70% thereof and the content
of tetra-substituted internal double bonds is very low, preferably less than about
5% and ideally less than about 1-2%. The midrange vinylidene content PIB polymer
products are prepared by a liquid phase polymerization process conducted in a loop
reactor at a temperature of at least 60 F. using a BF3/methanol
catalyst complex and a contact time of no more than 4 minutes.