1. Product Introduction & Main Application
Arnico’s Methyl Tertiary Butyl Ether (MTBE) is a clear, colorless, highly volatile liquid with a sharp ethereal odor, produced from the reaction of isobutylene with methanol. This substance is primarily used as an oxygen-rich octane-boosting additive in unleaded gasoline formulations to increase the octane number, reduce engine knock, and improve combustion while lowering CO emissions.
2. Technical Specifications
| Technical Parameter | Gasoline Blending Grade | Chemical Grade | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Purity | ≥ 98.0 | ≥ 99.5 | % |
| Methanol | ≤ 0.5 | ≤ 0.1 | % |
| Water | ≤ 0.1 | ≤ 0.05 | % |
| Density (20°C) | 0.740 – 0.745 | 0.741 – 0.744 | g/cm³ |
| Research Octane Number (RON) | ≥ 118 | ≥ 120 | – |
| Motor Octane Number (MON) | ≥ 101 | ≥ 102 | – |
| Boiling Point | 55 – 56 | 55 – 56 | °C |
3. Features & Benefits
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Exceptional Octane Enhancer: Its RON above 118 allows for the economical upgrade of regular gasoline to premium grade.
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Fuel Oxygenation: Supplies the oxygen necessary for more complete combustion, reducing carbon monoxide and unburned hydrocarbon emissions.
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Excellent Volatility & Miscibility: Blends completely and homogeneously with all gasoline components without phase separation.
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A Replacement for Lead & Aromatics: A cleaner substance for boosting octane compared to benzene and toluene.
4. Industrial Applications
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Refineries & Fuel Depots: The primary additive in Euro 4 and 5 gasoline blending.
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Petrochemical Industry: A raw material for producing high-purity isobutylene (via back-cracking).
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Chemical Industry: A solvent in laboratories and some synthesis processes.
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Pharmaceuticals: An extraction solvent in the synthesis of certain APIs.
5. Safety & Handling
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MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet): This liquid is highly flammable (Flash Point ≈ -28°C) and an irritant. Prolonged inhalation causes nervous system damage. The Arnico MSDS is mandatory.
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Storage Conditions: Store in floating-roof or nitrogen-pressurized tanks, in a cool environment, away from sparks and static electricity.
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Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): A respirator with an AX filter, Viton gloves, and anti-static clothing are required.
6. Quality Assurance & COA
Arnico MTBE shipments are accompanied by a Certificate of Analysis (COA) detailing the purity, octane numbers, and methanol content.
