Institute for the Analysis of Global Security and US Department of Energy What is MTBE?
Methyl tert-butyl ether (MTBE) was originally introduced as a fuel additive or “oxygenate” to reduce vehicle emissions and improve air quality. Twenty-five states have now limited or banned the substance because it has been shown to be a possible carcinogen and groundwater contaminant. Today, the only viable alternative to the oxygenate benefits of MTBE is ethanol.
