ISOBUTANE TO TRANSPORTATION FUEL

The present disclosure relates generally to processes and systems for producing liquid transportation fuels by converting a feed stream that predominantly comprises isobutane. The feed stream is catalytically-activated in two separate reaction zones arranged in series in a manner that minimizes the production of C1-C3 light paraffins and is tolerant to the presence of typical catalyst poisons. The first reaction zone is selective for conversion of the feed stream to predominantly olefins and some aromatics. The second reaction zone is maintained at a lower temperature and a higher pressure and is selective for converting olefins to monocyclic aromatics which facilitates further feed stream olefination. Certain embodiments contact the activation effluent with an alkylation catalyst to provide enhanced yields of upgraded hydrocarbon products that meet specifications for a transportation fuel blend component.