The widespread use of Methyl Tert-Butyl Ether (MTBE) as a gasoline additive, while beneficial for air quality, introduced significant environmental challenges, particularly concerning groundwater contamination. MTBE's inherent chemical properties, such as its high water solubility and resistance to natural biodegradation, made it a persistent contaminant once released into the subsurface. Accidental spills from underground storage tanks at fueling stations were a primary pathway for MTBE to seep into the ground and reach aquifers, impacting drinking water supplies for many communities.

The presence of MTBE in drinking water is problematic for two main reasons. Firstly, it imparts an offensive taste and odor, making water sources unusable even at concentrations far below levels typically associated with health risks. This aesthetic issue alone has led to the closure of numerous public water wells. Secondly, there remains uncertainty regarding the long-term health effects of chronic, low-level exposure to MTBE through drinking water. While studies on laboratory animals have shown potential adverse effects at high concentrations, the risk to humans from prolonged exposure to low levels is still a subject of ongoing research and debate.

Addressing MTBE contamination necessitates effective remediation strategies. The difficulty in removing MTBE from water is a significant hurdle, often proving more complex and costly than treating other components of gasoline. Remediation techniques can be broadly categorized into physical, chemical, and biological methods. Physical methods include techniques like air stripping, where contaminated water is exposed to air to volatilize the MTBE, and activated carbon adsorption, which effectively captures MTBE molecules onto the surface of the carbon. Chemical oxidation is another approach, employing strong oxidants to break down the MTBE molecule into less harmful substances.

Biological remediation, or bioremediation, leverages the power of microorganisms to degrade MTBE. This can occur under both aerobic (oxygen-present) and anaerobic (oxygen-absent) conditions, though specific microbial species and optimal environmental conditions are required for efficient degradation. Research continues into enhancing these biological processes and identifying robust microbial strains capable of breaking down MTBE more effectively. Understanding the various MTBE remediation techniques is crucial for developing effective strategies to protect public health and restore contaminated water resources. The ongoing efforts to manage the MTBE legacy underscore the importance of careful consideration of chemical additives and their environmental footprint.