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Stoichiometry in Action: Controversy over Oxygenated Fuels
- MTBE (methyl tertiary butyl ether, CH3OC(CH3)3) was the additive of choice by the oil companies.
- MTBE is a compound that does not biodegrade readily.
- MTBE made its way into drinking water through gasoline spills at gas stations, from boat motors, and from leaking underground storage tanks.
- Ethanol (C2H5OH), made from the fermentation of grains, is now used as a substitute for MTBE to increase oxygen content in motor fuel.
- Ethanol was not used originally because it was more expensive.