Assessment Of Potential Health Risks Of Gasoline Oxygenated With Methyl Tertiary Butyl Ether (MTBE)
This assessment of potential inhalation health risks associated with MTBE in gasoline drew upon the results of recent studies first reported at the "Conference on MTBE and Other Oxygenates" in July of 1993, as well as prior research. The focus of concerns at this time was on the winter oxygenated gasoline program, which required the use of gasoline containing 2.7%-weight oxygen in certain areas not in attainment of the National Ambient Air Quality Standard for carbon monoxide. This report described the current scientific information on MTBE with respect to: health effects; air quality and human exposure; and potential health risks (an integration of health effects and exposure information). Limited discussion was also devoted to benzene, formaldehyde, and other fuel-related toxic air emissions that may be altered by the use of MTBE in gasoline.
Citation
Graham, J. A. Assessment Of Potential Health Risks Of Gasoline Oxygenated With Methyl Tertiary Butyl Ether (MTBE). U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Research and Development, Washington, DC, EPA/600/R-93/206, 1993.
This document has been reviewed in accordance with U.S. Environmental Protection Agency policy and approved for publication. Mention of trade names or commercial products does not constitute endorsement or recommendation for use.