Analysis, occurrence and fate of MTBE in the aquatic environment over the past decade

In the past decade, it became progressively more evident that fuel oxygenate methyl tertiary butyl ether (MTBE) is nearly ubiquitous in the worldwide environment. The frequency of detection of MTBE rivals other volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that have been produced and used for a much longer time. Its mere presence in water bodies used as drinking-water reservoirs (rivers, lakes or groundwater tables) has aroused concern about its potential sources, persistence and possible adverse effects (aesthetic or toxic implications) for end users and aquatic life. This article aims to provide an updated overview of the analytical techniques applied for current environmental concentrations, the occurrence of MTBE as a pollutant in the different aquatic compartments, the relevance of diffuse and point sources and the different options for remediation of MTBE-contaminated sites.