Abstract: The invention provides a homogeneous metathesis process for converting C4 to C10 olefins in a Fischer-Tropsch derived feedstock to C6 to C18 olefins, wherein a higher transitions group metal catalyst is used to metathesize a double bond on a linear portion of the olefin, provided that the double bond is at least three carbons away from a branch if the olefin is branched. The catalyst may include a metal-alkylidene complex and the metal may be ruthenium, osmium, tungsten, or iridium. A suitable catalyst is a Grubbs catalyst. The metathesis process includes a recycle process to maintain the reaction equilibrium, although ethylene can be extracted from the process if a recycle process is not used. A co-solvent is used to increase the product yield. The C6 to C18 olefin produced by the above process may be suitable for use as drilling fluids.

Abstract: A catalyst system, which is suitable for use in the metathesis of unsaturated hydrocarbons, comprises silica, alumina and an alkyl tin compound in intimate contact with one another. The catalyst system is characterized thereby that it contains no transition metal such as tungsten, molybdenum or rhenium.

Abstract: A process for treating unsaturated hydrocarbons comprises subjecting an unsaturated hydrocarbon component to metathesis in the presence of a catalyst system comprising silica, alumina and an alkyl tin compound, thereby to form one or more different hydrocarbons.