A process for the oligomerization of propylene is disclosed wherein MCM-22
zeolite prepared as a distillation structure is used in a reaction
distillation zone under conditions of temperature and pressure to
concurrently react the propylene to produce oligomers thereof and
separate the oligomer products from unreacted propylene by fractional
distillation in a distillation column reactor. Compared to the prior art
tubular or plug flow reactors, lower temperatures and pressures are used
to produce higher conversions and selectivities to preferred isomeric
forms.