Remediation of MTBE-contaminated groundwater

Methyl tert. butyl ether (MTBE) has been used in as an additive in gasoline since 1985 in order to increase the octane number. Since many underground storage tanks for oil products are not tight, there is a risk of groundwater contamination at many places. The pollution potential is particularly high if MTBE is present because of its biological persistance and poor sorption to the soil matrix. The project aims at identifying the most feasible methods of groundwater remediation following contamination with MTBE. The project has shown that several technologies are relevant, for example stripping methods. It is also likely that natural bioremediation works in some places. The is a considerable need for the development of methods for biological treatment of the off-gases from the stripping methods and treatment of contaminated water from the pumping operations.