Ethyl tert-butyl ether

Ethyl tert-butyl ether (CAS 637-92-3), commonly known as ETBE, is a fuel oxygenate and blending component produced from bioethanol and isobutylene.

Where is Ethyl tert-butyl ether used?

• Gasoline: raises octane rating and reduces tailpipe emissions
• Fuel blending: incorporated at regulated concentrations to meet octane specifications and comply with clean fuel mandates in European and Asian markets
• Refiners favor it over MTBE where bio-derived content requirements apply
• Its bioethanol origin supports renewable fuel obligations
• Solvent applications: low-polarity carrier in specialty coatings, extraction processes, and chemical synthesis where controlled evaporation rate and miscibility are relevant
• Its low water solubility compared to ethanol reduces groundwater contamination risk.

Good to know: Its low water solubility compared to ethanol reduces groundwater contamination risk, a key procurement consideration in environmentally regulated markets with strict safety and environmental standards for chemical handling.

Commercial specifications

• Fuel-grade is the primary commercial specification
• Purity typically 99%+ for blending applications
• Technical-grade material available for industrial solvent use
• Supply volumes generally tied to refinery or petrochemical production schedules