Fuel oxygenates

The state-of-the-art on fuel oxygenates, and in particular of MTBE in groundwater, is presented in this book. Historically, oxygenates like MTBE were developed in the 1970s as octane enhancers to replace toxic additives like lead, which were phased out of gasoline. The presence of oxygenates in gasoline promotes cleaner fuel combustion within the engine, boosts fuel octane values and reduces vehicle emissions.

Another relevant oxygenate is ethyl-tertiary-butyl ether (ETBE), which has increasingly replaced MTBE.

This book deals mainly with the problems associated with the contamination of groundwater by MTBE and TBA, but ETBE is also considered. The book, written by recognized specialists in the field, is organized in sections covering state-of-the-art analytical methods, including specific isotopic analysis, occurrence in the environment, transport and degradation processes, treatment technologies and human health risks. It offers a unique opportunity not only for scientists who want to get more comprehensive information on this subject but also for policy makers and stakeholders that need to manage real-world environmental problems associated with fuel oxygenate