Alkylation is an important source for octane in gasoline

February 13, 2013 Alkylation is an important source for octane in gasoline.Source: Occupational Safety and Health Administration. Alkylation (al-kuh-ley-shun) is a secondary refinery unit operation that many refineries in the United States have because it adds high octane hydrocarbons to motor and aviation gasoline. High octane hydrocarbons are needed to help prevent autoignition of gasoline (