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MTBE Fact Sheet
What is MTBE?
Methyl tertiary butyl ether (MTBE) is made from methanol, a poisonous alcohol
derived from natural gas, biomass or coal, and isobutylene, an oil refinery product. It is a colorless, flammable liquid that smells like turpentine and resists
biodegradation. Since the late 1970s, MTBE has been added to gasoline as an octane booster to increase engine performance, and it has been used to meet
oxygenate levels mandated by the 1990 Clean Air Act Amendments.
MTBE Facts
More than half of the MTBE used in the United States today is imported, primarily from Saudi Arabia.
85% of all domestically produced MTBE is made in Texas.
MTBE is used in 80% of reformulated gasoline, which is 30% of the car fuel used in
the United States.
Groundwater Contamination
The EPA-mandated Blue Ribbon Panel and a detailed study from the University of California-Davis have confirmed that MTBE has contaminated water supplies in
several states.If just one tanker full of MTBE collided with another vehicle and overturned, it could contaminate a year’s supply of Chicago drinking water. One
gallon of MTBE could contaminate 26 million gallons of water. (Chicago Department of Water)
MTBE is difficult and expensive to clean up because it resists biodegradation and
clings to water molecules more stubbornly than other gasoline components. (National Drinking Water Clearinghouse)
MTBE contaminates water resources faster than any other gasoline component.
(Bureau of Health, Department of Human Services and Department of
Environmental Protection, 5/21/98)
Health Considerations
The U.S. EPA tentatively classifies MTBE as a possible human carcinogen.
MTBE is capable of causing cancer, kidney, reproductive, developmental and
nervous system toxicity in laboratory animals exposed to large amounts.
(Bureau of Health, Department of Human Services and Department of Environmental Protection, 5/21/98)
There have been nationwide reports of headaches, dizziness, irritated eyes, burning
of the nose and throat, coughing disorientation and nausea after MTBE had been added to gasoline. (National Water-Quality Assessment Program)
Benefits of MTBE
MTBE-gasoline blends have proven to be effective at reducing ozone, carbon monoxide and toxic air pollutants.
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