What is Methyl Tertiary-butyl Ether (MTBE)?

Methyl tertiary-butyl ether, or MTBE, is an additive that is mixed with gasoline to improve flammability and reduce the amount of carbon monoxide which is put into the air by automobile engines. Unfortunately, MTBE dissolves very quickly in water and some studies have shown that exposure to boiling water that contains MTBE has shown a higher occurrence of malignancy. The overall evaluation by studies focused on the carcinogenic risks of simply drinking water with MTBE is inconclusive. This has led a number of national and international health and environmental agencies to leave MTBE off of lists of known carcinogens, though some of these agencies have admitted that, though there is insufficient evidence at this time, there is indeed a likelihood that MTBE may contribute to occurrences of cancer.