Groundwater Data Analysis for Methyl Tertiary Butyl Ether

Abstract

Abstract Methyl tertiary butyl ether (MTBE) is a gasoline oxygenated additive that is used to enhance gasoline combustion and consequently to reduce air pollution. Due to its high solubility in water, mobility, and low natural biodegradation potential in the subsurface environment, MTBE has become a significant groundwater contaminant. Based on data collected in Los Angeles Region, California, this article presents MTBE concentration distribution in groundwater. MTBE groundwater data were correlated with the parameters of benzene and total petroleum hydrocarbons as gasoline (TPHg) concentrations in groundwater and the depth to groundwater. The correlation coefficient shows a poor correlation between MTBE and those three parameters. This article also investigated MTBE plume length and concentration changes over the distance of the plume length and over a period of monitoring time. The data show that MTBE concentration decreases over distance and increases over time at the downgradient well. Groundwater data analysis supports the understanding that MTBE transport primarily depends on its chemical properties and litle on hydrogeological factors such as the depth to groundwater or the hydraulic gradient. MTBE is the leading edge compound in the plume, and MTBE travels faster and has lower natural degradation potential than do benzene and TPHg in groundwater.