What is methyl tert-butyl ether and why is it suddenly showing up in my water?
Methyl tert-butyl ether, also known as MTBE, is commonly used as an octane booster for gasoline. MTBE is not known to be related to any groundwater plumes associated with MMR. It is highly soluble in water and when released to the environment via exhaust fumes becomes part of the precipitation that falls to the earth. Other examples of how MTBE might enter the groundwater is via leaking underground gasoline storage tanks, fuel spills or through the use of motor boats on ponds. There is no federal or state MCL for this chemical, however, guidelines have been established. The guideline values may be used to determine the potential need for further action relating to drinking water quality. To date, this has never been required by EPA or MassDEP for communities surrounding MMR.
