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Methyl Tert Butyl Ether Price Trend and Forecast

UNSPC code: 12191502
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âźł Weekly Update
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Historical Data Since 2015
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Forecast for 2026

methyl tert butyl ether Price Trends by Country

cnChina
usUnited States
sgSingapore
nlNetherlands
inIndia
mxMexico
beBelgium

methyl tert butyl ether Pricing Trends in India: 

  • Northern India methyl tert butyl ether market price trend
  • Southern India methyl tert butyl ether market price trend
  • Central India methyl tert butyl ether market price trend

Global methyl tert butyl ether Price Trend, Analysis and Forecast​

Methyl Tert Butyl Ether (MTBE) Price Trend Q3 2025

Global MTBE markets in Q3 2025 saw mixed movements, with Europe experiencing strong price gains on seasonal blending demand. Asia posted slight declines due to weaker fuel consumption and limited arbitrage opportunities. U.S. and Mexico markets softened amid steady supply and subdued blending activity. India’s pharma-grade MTBE outlook remained firm, supported by stable feedstock and growing industrial demand.

United States

Methyl tert-butyl ether (MTBE) Export prices FOB Houston, USA, Grade – 97% min Industrial Grade.

In Q3 2025, MTBE prices in the USA reflected minor bearish sentiment due to soft domestic blending demand. Product prices in Q3 remained under pressure from reduced gasoline consumption and limited export activity. MTBE price trend in USA markets was influenced by declining crude oil values and ample feedstock isobutylene supply. According to the PriceWatch, MTBE prices fell by 1.40% during the quarter.

Refinery turnarounds were limited, ensuring stable regional supply levels. Product prices in the USA also reacted to slower downstream demand across Latin American markets. MTBE price in the USA remained steady in September 2025, supported by improving export flow toward Mexico. Overall, steady inventory positions are expected to sustain balanced prices through early Q4.

China

Methyl tert-butyl ether (MTBE) Export prices FOB Shanghai, China, Grade – 98% min Industrial Grade.

In Q3 2025, MTBE prices in China declined slightly amid weaker domestic blending activity and export competition. Product prices in Q3 mirrored the fluctuating fuel demand from the refining sector. MTBE price trend in China was primarily influenced by intermittent refinery operation rates and downstream adjustments. According to the PriceWatch, MTBE prices in China decreased by 1.97% from Q2 2025.

Reduced gasoline blending requirements and competitive regional offers added to the downward push. Still, some refiners observed stable margins due to lower methanol and isobutylene costs. MTBE price in China maintained mild volatility throughout September 2025. The country’s export competitiveness may improve in Q4 as fuel blending activity recovers modestly.

Singapore

Methyl tert-butyl ether (MTBE) Export prices FOB Jurong, Singapore, Grade – 98% min Industrial Grade.

In Q3 2025, MTBE prices in Singapore declined marginally due to moderate export demand and balanced local output. Product prices in Q3 reflected limited arbitrage opportunities across Southeast Asia. MTBE price trend in Singapore showed stability amid steady blending margins and lower upstream costs. According to the PriceWatch, MTBE prices declined by 1.92% over the quarter.

Regular exports to regional hubs like Indonesia and Thailand maintained moderate trading volumes. Price support was constrained by declining crude oil benchmarks and limited downstream expansion. Product prices in Singapore saw minor fluctuations in September 2025 as inventories remained sufficient. Refinery reliability and stable operational rates are likely to maintain balanced price levels during Q4 2025.

Netherlands

Methyl tert-butyl ether (MTBE) Export prices FOB Amsterdam, Netherlands, Grade – 97% min Industrial Grade.

In Q3 2025, MTBE prices in the Netherlands surged strongly, reflecting firm European blending demand during the summer season. Product prices in Q3 benefited from seasonal gasoline consumption and constrained supply. MTBE price trend in the Netherlands was shaped by refinery throughput and elevated feedstock valuation. According to the PriceWatch, MTBE prices increased by 12.63% in Q3 2025.

Refinery maintenance schedules and tight supply from regional hubs supported the bullish sentiment. Market sentiment remained positive due to active trade and strong automotive fuel consumption. MTBE price in the Netherlands moved upward in September 2025 with firm gasoline blending margins. Price strength may extend into Q4 if demand remains robust amid logistical constraints.

Mexico

Methyl tert-butyl ether (MTBE) Import prices CIF Manzanillo, Mexico, Grade – 97% min Industrial Grade.

In Q3 2025, MTBE prices in Mexico displayed mild weakness amid steady availability from U.S. exporters. Product prices in Q3 tracked lower gasoline blending requirements as refining operations stabilized. MTBE price trend in Mexico was influenced by moderating energy prices and consistent supply chains. According to the PriceWatch, MTBE prices fell by 1.42% compared with the previous quarter.

Despite slower demand, stable logistics at Manzanillo ports balanced market sentiment. Feedstock methanol and isobutylene values remained moderate, keeping costs in check. Product prices in Mexico were stable in September 2025, aided by consistent import volumes from Houston. Downstream blending activity is expected to recover slightly in Q4 2025.

Belgium

Methyl tert-butyl ether (MTBE) Domestic prices FD Antwerp, Belgium, Grade – 97% min Industrial Grade.

In Q3 2025, MTBE prices in Belgium surged strongly, supported by firm gasoline blending demand and limited refinery output. Product prices in Q3 were influenced by regional supply tightness and firmer European consumption. MTBE price trend in Belgium gained momentum due to constrained logistics and high seasonal fuel demand. According to the PriceWatch, MTBE prices rose by 12.47% through Q3 2025.

European blending margins remained elevated with product demand from the transportation sector. Refinery maintenance at northwest European facilities tightened regional availability. Product prices in Belgium strengthened further in September 2025 as fuel consumption remained robust. Continued upward pressure may persist into Q4 amid steady blending appetite across Western Europe.

India – Mumbai

Methyl tert-butyl ether (MTBE) Domestic prices Ex-Mumbai, India, Grade – 99.8% min Pharma Grade.

In Q3 2025, MTBE prices in Mumbai showed moderate strengthening amid steady demand from the pharmaceutical sector. Product prices in Q3 reflected balanced domestic consumption supported by consistent production and healthy downstream utilization. MTBE price trend in Mumbai was influenced by stable methanol costs and moderate operational efficiencies among local manufacturers.

According to the PriceWatch, MTBE pharma grade prices in Mumbai increased by 2.18% during the quarter. Rising orders from pharmaceutical and specialty chemical producers sustained demand fundamentals. Despite logistics constraints, market sentiment remained firm owing to consistent product availability. Product prices in Mumbai advanced slightly in September 2025 in response to increased local procurement. The MTBE market in Mumbai is expected to maintain stability into Q4 2025 amid consistent industrial activity.

India – West India

Methyl tert-butyl ether (MTBE) Domestic prices West India, Grade – 99.8% min Pharma Grade.

In Q3 2025, MTBE prices in West India rose slightly, supported by steady demand from pharma and fine chemical manufacturers. Product prices in Q3 indicated firm market fundamentals strengthened by stable production and downstream growth. MTBE price trend in West India remained positive amid consistent healthcare and industrial sector consumption. According to the PriceWatch, MTBE pharma grade prices in West India increased by 2.23% compared with the previous quarter.

Rising export-oriented pharmaceutical formulations sustained regional buying interest. Supply conditions were balanced due to improved feedstock availability across local plants. Product prices in West India gained further traction in September 2025 as demand from bulk drug producers increased. The strengthening economic outlook and stable feedstock costs are expected to support prices through Q4 2025.

Methyl Tert Butyl Ether Price Trend Analysis: Q2 2025

According to PriceWatch, Methyl tert-butyl Ether (MTBE) prices on an FOB basis saw a significant decline across major global markets in Q2 2025. FOB Houston prices averaged USD 713 per metric ton, down 9.52% from Q1 2025. FOB Shanghai prices dropped to USD 660 per metric ton, reflecting a 10.08% decrease.

FOB Jurong, Singapore prices settled at USD 678 per metric ton, a 6.87% fall, while FOB Amsterdam prices averaged USD 776 per metric ton, down 7.95%. The global price trend was clearly bearish, as weak demand and ample supply pressured the price trend downward.

The price trend for Q2 2025 illustrated a uniform downward trajectory across all major export hubs. This environment forced market participants to focus on cost management and efficient logistics to navigate the challenging global market dynamics. 

Methyl Tert Butyl Ether Price Trend Analysis: Q1 2025

In Q1 2025, American MTBE prices saw a minor dip of 0.88%, settling at $788/MT, indicating softness in demand post-Q4 stockpiling. Chinese MTBE prices experienced a significant rise of 5.31%, reaching $734/MT, driven by a recovery in demand in early 2025.

Meanwhile, Dutch MTBE prices saw a modest increase of 0.24%, climbing to $843/MT, indicating a slight market rebound. Singapore MTBE prices saw a small increase of 0.55%, rising to $728/MT, as the market started to show signs of stabilization. These Price Changes will impact countries like India, Mexico and Belgium. 

Methyl Tert Butyl Ether Price Trend Analysis: Q4 2024

In Q4 2024, American MTBE prices dropped by 15.52%, settling at $795/MT, following seasonal demand changes and lower consumption. Chinese MTBE prices dropped by 13.09%, falling to $697/MT, reflecting slower market activity. Dutch MTBE prices dropped by 8.09%, reaching $841/MT, due to slower demand at the year’s close. Singapore MTBE prices dropped by 6.46%, settling at $724/MT, reflecting ongoing softness in the market. These Price Changes will impact countries like India, Mexico and Belgium. 

Methyl Tert Butyl Ether Price Trend Analysis: Q3 2024

In Q3 2024, American MTBE prices dropped by 1.67%, reaching $941/MT, reflecting a steady market correction. Chinese MTBE prices dropped by 10.49%, falling to $802/MT, driven by seasonal factors and reduced consumption. Dutch MTBE prices dropped sharply by 12.02%, reaching $915/MT, reflecting weaker consumption in the third quarter. Singapore MTBE prices dropped by 13.52%, falling to $774/MT, impacted by weaker regional demand. These Price Changes will impact countries like India, Mexico and Belgium. 

Methyl Tert Butyl Ether Price Trend Analysis: Q2 2024

In Q2 2024, American MTBE prices fell by 6.45%, dropping to $957/MT, due to a decline in demand following the previous quarter’s increase. Chinese MTBE prices increased by 5.16%, reaching $896/MT, following a recovery in demand. Dutch MTBE prices slightly declined by 1.05%, reaching $1,040/MT, with a gradual drop continuing through the quarter. Singapore MTBE prices saw a slight decrease of 0.22%, reaching $895/MT, with market conditions remaining relatively stable. These Price Changes will impact countries like India, Mexico and Belgium. 

Methyl Tert Butyl Ether Price Trend Analysis: Q1 2024

In Q1 2024, American MTBE prices rose by 8.14%, reaching $1,023/MT, driven by strong demand. Chinese MTBE prices fell by 2.74%, dropping to $852/MT, reflecting weaker demand from domestic markets. Dutch MTBE prices decreased by 4.37%, reaching $1,051/MT, due to lower demand from the European market. Singapore MTBE prices decreased by 1.54%, settling at $897/MT, influenced by lower regional consumption. These Price Changes will impact countries like India, Mexico and Belgium. 

India methyl tert butyl ether Price Trend, Analysis and Forecast

Methyl Tert Butyl Ether Price Trend Analysis: Q1 2025

In Q1 2025, MTBE Imported from China impacted the prices that prices increased by 4.76%, rising to $814/MT, as the Chinese MTBE prices increased due to their festival season and demand in India increased as the supply became tight. Indian Made High Purity MTBE Prices softened again due to seasonal slowdowns. Ex-Mumbai declined to $1,263/ton by 2.93%, while West India eased to $1,277/ton by 2.87%, amid muted exports and cautious stock replenishment. 

Methyl Tert Butyl Ether Price Trend Analysis: Q2 2025

According to PriceWatch, MTBE prices in India also experienced notable shifts in Q2 2025. CIF Nhava Sheva prices averaged USD 718 per metric ton, recording an 11.79% decrease from the previous quarter. However, high purity MTBE pharma grade prices Ex Mumbai rose to USD 1,332 per metric ton, up 6.90%, and Ex West India prices increased to USD 1,345 per metric ton, up 6.75%.

The price trend in India diverged between industrial and pharma grades, with the price trend for pharma grade showing strength due to robust demand. The price trend for India depicted a sharp drop in industrial grade prices but a steady rise in pharma grade values.

The Indian market reflected this duality, as industrial buyers benefited from global softness while pharma suppliers capitalized on strong domestic demand and limited supply. 

Methyl Tert Butyl Ether Price Trend Analysis: Q1 2024

In Q1 2024, MTBE Imported from China impacted the prices that increased by 1.11%, rising to $907/MT, indicating a modest increase in demand, driven by improved market conditions and a gradual recovery in consumption and activity.

Indian Made High Purity MTBE Prices edged down as market activity cooled post-festive season. Ex-Mumbai dropped to $1,317/ton by 1.77%, while West India slipped to $1,334/ton by 1.80%. The decline was mainly due to reduced industrial consumption and cautious purchasing. 

Methyl Tert Butyl Ether Price Trend Analysis: Q2 2024

In Q2 2024, MTBE Imported from China impacted the prices that prices rose by 5.62%, reaching $958/MT, fueled by increased demand and heightened market activity, leading to a surge in transactions, production, and consumption, boosting overall market confidence and contributing to price growth in the industry.

Indian Made High Purity MTBE Downward pressure continued, with Ex-Mumbai falling to $1,281/ton by 2.62% and West India to $1,298/ton by 2.63%. Ample inventories and sluggish demand, particularly in blending applications, weighed on the market. 

Methyl Tert Butyl Ether Price Trend Analysis: Q3 2024

In Q3 2024, MTBE Imported from China impacted the prices that prices fell by 8.25%, dropping to $879/MT, Indicating reduced consumption and weaker market activity, driven by factors such as decreased demand, economic slowdown, and lower industrial output, resulting in a downturn in transactions and production.

Indian Made High Purity MTBE Prices stabilized slightly. Ex-Mumbai ticked up to $1,286/ton by 0.25%, while West India reached $1,302/ton by 0.17%, supported by steady demand from pharmaceutical producers. 

Methyl Tert Butyl Ether Price Trend Analysis: Q4 2024

In Q4 2024, MTBE Imported from China impacted the prices that prices dropped by 11.60%, falling to $777/MT, as demand weakened due to the off season and the surplus supply in the market, in the fourth quarter.

Indian Made High Purity MTBE Improved sentiment and feedstock costs lifted Ex-Mumbai prices to $1,336/ton by 3.83%, and West India to $1,351/ton by 3.76%. Downstream demand improved moderately across pharma and specialty chemical segments. 

Global methyl tert butyl ether Supply Chain

Upstream
Downstream
  • Automotive Fuel Industry
  • Petrochemical Industry
  • Pharmaceuticals
  • Chemical Manufacturing Industry
  • Agrochemicals
  • Lubricant Industry
Major supplying countries
  • USA
  • China
  • Singapore
  • Netherlands
Major importing countries
  • India
  • Mexico
  • Belgium

India methyl tert butyl ether Supply Chain

Upstream
  • Isobutylene
  • Methanol
Downstream
  • Automotive Fuel Industry
  • Petrochemical Industry
  • Pharmaceuticals
  • Chemical Manufacturing Industry
  • Agrochemicals
  • Lubricant Industry
Major supplying countries
  • USA
  • China
  • Singapore
  • Netherlands
Major importing countries
  • India
  • Mexico
  • Belgium

Technical Specifications of Methyl Tert Butyl Ether Price Trends

Molecular Weight[g/mol]

88.15 

CAS No

1634-04-4

HS Code

29091920

Molecular Formula

(CH3)3COCH3
methyl tert butyl ether

Methyl Tert-Butyl Ether (MTBE) is a high-performance oxygenate used primarily as a gasoline additive to enhance octane levels and reduce engine knocking. With its ability to improve fuel combustion efficiency and lower emissions, MTBE is widely used in the automotive and energy industries. It also serves as a solvent in chemical manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, and paints. MTBE’s low vapor pressure and excellent solubility make it ideal for blending and increasing fuel stability. Known for its high purity and performance, MTBE supports cleaner and more efficient fuel consumption.

Packaging Type

Iso Tanks, 180 Kg Drum

Methyl Tert Butyl Ether Grades Covered

Industrial Grade (98%), High Purity MTBE (>99.8%)

Incoterms Used

FOB China, FOB USA, FOB Singapore, FOB Netherlands, CIF Nhava Sheva (China), FD Belgium (Netherlands), CIF Manzanillo (USA), >99.8% High Purity Methyl tert-butyl ether Pharma Grade_Ex Mumbai, >99.8% High Purity Methyl tert-butyl ether Pharma Grade_West India

Synonym

MTBE, Tertiary butyl methyl ether, 2-Methoxy-2-methylpropane, Methyl 2-methylpropyl ether

PriceWatch Quotation Terms:

20-25 MT, 10-15 MT

Ex-Location: This incoterm refers to a shipping agreement where the seller makes the goods available at their premises, and the buyer is responsible for all transportation costs, including shipping, insurance, and any other fees.
CIF: CIF refers to the Cost, Insurance, and Freight (CIF) terms for goods. Under CIF terms, the seller is responsible for the cost of goods, insurance, and freight charges until the goods reach the port of destination.
FD: FD stands for Free Delivered where the seller takes full responsibility for delivering goods to the location/port. This ensures the buyer receives the goods at the designated port with all necessary costs, except import duties, covered.
FOB: FOB refers to the Free On-Board shipping term, where the seller is responsible for the cost and risk of delivering the goods to the port. Once the goods are on board the vessel, the responsibility shifts to the buyer for all costs, including shipping and insurance.

Property  Value  Units 
Purity  98  % 
Total C4  0.5  % 
Methanol 

 

 0.5 

 

 % 
Di-isobutylene  0.6  % 
TBA  0.6  % 
Colour  5  Pt-Co 
ETBE  0.075  Wt.% 

 

Property  Value  Unit 
Appearance  A Clear Colorless Liquid 
Purity  99.8  % Min 
Methanol  0.2  % Max 
TBA  0.2  % Max 
Moisture  0.1  % Max 
C4/C5 Hydrocarbon  0.1  % Max 

Methyl Tert Butyl Ether Industrial Applications

MTBE is a versatile compound with a wide range of applications across various industries. It serves as a key raw material in producing superabsorbent polymers, essential for manufacturing disposable diapers and feminine hygiene products. Its ability to absorb large quantities of liquids makes MTBE invaluable in personal care. Additionally, it is used in coatings, adhesives, and sealants due to its excellent adhesion and durability. In the construction industry, MTBE is incorporated into paints and emulsions, enhancing flexibility and weather resistance. Its application in construction materials improves durability and extends the lifespan of coatings. The automotive sector also uses MTBE in lightweight composite materials, contributing to better fuel efficiency and reduced emissions, supporting the industry’s push for sustainability. MTBE also plays a role in water treatment, where it is used to formulate flocculants that help remove impurities. The textile industry benefits from MTBE in finishes that improve fabric performance and appearance. With the growing demand for sustainable products, MTBE is increasingly utilized in developing bio-based materials and environmentally friendly alternatives, underscoring its importance in both industrial and consumer markets.

Historically, several events have caused significant fluctuations in Methyl Tert Butyl Ether prices

  • Israel-Hamas Conflict (2023-Present): The ongoing conflict has disrupted trade routes and supply chains in the Middle East, impacting the availability and costs of raw materials essential for MTBE production globally. 
  • Russia-Ukraine Conflict (2022-Present): This ongoing war has severely disrupted production and supply chains across Europe, particularly affecting Belgium, and the Netherlands, leading to increased costs and heightened global price volatility. 
  • Environmental Regulations and Protests (2019-Present): Stricter environmental regulations in South Korea and India, along with protests against industrial pollution, have affected production capabilities and increased compliance costs, contributing to price increases. 
  • Global Energy Price Volatility (2021-2022): Fluctuations in crude oil and natural gas prices, particularly in the U.S. and Europe, directly affected the production costs of MTBE, resulting in periodic price adjustments. 
  • Texas Winter Storm (2021): Severe winter weather in the U.S. resulted in production halts, particularly affecting MTBE facilities in Texas. This event caused a temporary spike in prices due to supply constraints. 
  • COVID-19 Pandemic (2020): The pandemic initially led to a sharp decline in demand; however, as economies reopened, demand surged in sectors such as packaging and coatings, significantly impacting MTBE prices. 
  • Geopolitical Tensions and Trade Wars (2018-2019): The U.S.-China trade war introduced uncertainty in global supply chains, particularly affecting the import and export dynamics for MTBE, contributing to price instability. 

 

These events underscore the MTBE market’s vulnerability to global disruptions and highlight the need for continuous monitoring of supply-demand dynamics. 

Why PriceWatch?

PriceWatch is your trusted resource for tracking global methyl tert butyl ether price trends. Our platform delivers real-time data and expert analysis, offering deep insights into the key factors driving price fluctuations in the methyl tert butyl ether market. By monitoring critical events such as geopolitical tensions, supply chain disruptions, and economic shifts, PriceWatch keeps you fully informed of market dynamics.

In addition, PriceWatch provides detailed forecasts and updates on production capacities, enabling you to anticipate market changes and make well-informed decisions. With PriceWatch, you gain a competitive edge in understanding all the elements that influence methyl tert butyl ether prices worldwide. Stay ahead of the curve with PriceWatch’s reliable, accurate, and timely methyl tert butyl ether market data.

Track PriceWatch's methyl tert butyl ether price assessment on a weekly basis since 2015 onwards, along with short-term forecasts, and get access to the detailed report in a downloadable format.

Data Collection and Sources​

  • Real-Time Market Data: PriceWatch aggregates real-time pricing data from various sources, including global commodity exchanges, industry reports, and proprietary databases. This ensures our assessments reflect the most current market conditions for MTBE. 
  • On-the-Ground Intelligence: Our team gathers insights directly from key market participants, including producers, suppliers, traders, and end-users across major MTBE production hubs. This ground-level intelligence is crucial for understanding localized market dynamics. 
  • Supply Chain Monitoring: We track the entire MTBE supply chain, from raw material availability (e.g., Methanol, Isobutylene, TBA) to production and distribution channels. This includes monitoring feedstock prices, production capacities, and transportation logistics. 

Event Tracking and Impact Analysis​

  • Geopolitical Tensions: PriceWatch continuously monitors global geopolitical developments, such as conflicts or trade disputes, that can significantly impact MTBE prices. Our analysis considers potential disruptions to supply chains and their immediate and long-term effects on pricing. 
  • Natural Disasters and Climate Events: We assess the impact of natural disasters, such as hurricanes or winter storms, on MTBE production facilities, particularly in vulnerable regions like the U.S. Gulf Coast. These events are factored into our price forecasts and supply outlooks. 
  • Economic Shifts: PriceWatch evaluates macroeconomic trends, including global economic growth, inflation rates, and sector-specific demand (e.g., automotive, fuel blending), to predict shifts in MTBE demand and corresponding price movements.

Production Capacity and Supply Analysis

  • Current Production Monitoring: We maintain a comprehensive database of global MTBE production facilities, tracking their operational status, maintenance schedules, and output levels. This allows us to accurately assess current supply availability. 
  • Future Capacity Projections: Our research includes detailed forecasts of upcoming MTBE production capacities, factoring in new plant constructions, expansions, and technological advancements. This helps predict future supply trends and potential price stabilization.

Demand Forecasting

  • Sectoral Demand Analysis: PriceWatch provides in-depth analysis of demand trends across key sectors, including automotive and fuel blending. We track year-on-year demand growth and project future consumption patterns based on economic indicators and industry developments. 
  • Global Demand Dynamics: Our methodology considers regional demand variations and how they influence global MTBE pricing, including shifts in manufacturing bases, trade policies, and environmental regulations. 

Pricing Model Development

  • Dynamic Pricing Models: PriceWatch utilizes advanced econometric models to forecast MTBE prices, incorporating real-time data, historical trends, and projected market conditions. Our models are continuously refined to enhance accuracy and predictive power. 
  • Scenario Analysis: We conduct scenario-based assessments to evaluate potential future market conditions, including best-case, worst-case, and most likely scenarios, helping our clients prepare for a range of market outcomes.

Reporting and Client Support

  • Comprehensive Reports: Our clients receive detailed reports that include current price assessments, future price forecasts, and in-depth analysis of market drivers. These reports are designed to be actionable, providing clear insights and recommendations. 
  • Ongoing Support: PriceWatch offers continuous updates and personalized support to our clients, ensuring they have the most up-to-date information to make informed decisions. Our experts are available to discuss specific market developments and provide tailored advice. 

This research methodology ensures that PriceWatch delivers the most accurate, timely, and actionable MTBE pricing assessments, helping our clients stay ahead of market trends and make informed business decisions. 

Molecular Weight[g/mol]

88.15 

CAS No

1634-04-4

HS Code

29091920

Molecular Formula

(CH3)3COCH3
methyl tert butyl ether

Methyl Tert-Butyl Ether (MTBE) is a high-performance oxygenate used primarily as a gasoline additive to enhance octane levels and reduce engine knocking. With its ability to improve fuel combustion efficiency and lower emissions, MTBE is widely used in the automotive and energy industries. It also serves as a solvent in chemical manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, and paints. MTBE’s low vapor pressure and excellent solubility make it ideal for blending and increasing fuel stability. Known for its high purity and performance, MTBE supports cleaner and more efficient fuel consumption.

Packaging Type

Iso Tanks, 180 Kg Drum

Grades Covered

Industrial Grade (98%), High Purity MTBE (>99.8%)

Incoterms Used

FOB China, FOB USA, FOB Singapore, FOB Netherlands, CIF Nhava Sheva (China), FD Belgium (Netherlands), CIF Manzanillo (USA), >99.8% High Purity Methyl tert-butyl ether Pharma Grade_Ex Mumbai, >99.8% High Purity Methyl tert-butyl ether Pharma Grade_West India

Synonym

MTBE, Tertiary butyl methyl ether, 2-Methoxy-2-methylpropane, Methyl 2-methylpropyl ether

PriceWatch Quotation Terms:

20-25 MT, 10-15 MT

Ex-Location: This incoterm refers to a shipping agreement where the seller makes the goods available at their premises, and the buyer is responsible for all transportation costs, including shipping, insurance, and any other fees.
CIF: CIF refers to the Cost, Insurance, and Freight (CIF) terms for goods. Under CIF terms, the seller is responsible for the cost of goods, insurance, and freight charges until the goods reach the port of destination.
FD: FD stands for Free Delivered where the seller takes full responsibility for delivering goods to the location/port. This ensures the buyer receives the goods at the designated port with all necessary costs, except import duties, covered.
FOB: FOB refers to the Free On-Board shipping term, where the seller is responsible for the cost and risk of delivering the goods to the port. Once the goods are on board the vessel, the responsibility shifts to the buyer for all costs, including shipping and insurance.

Property  Value  Units 
Purity  98  % 
Total C4  0.5  % 
Methanol 

 

 0.5 

 

 % 
Di-isobutylene  0.6  % 
TBA  0.6  % 
Colour  5  Pt-Co 
ETBE  0.075  Wt.% 

 

Property  Value  Unit 
Appearance  A Clear Colorless Liquid 
Purity  99.8  % Min 
Methanol  0.2  % Max 
TBA  0.2  % Max 
Moisture  0.1  % Max 
C4/C5 Hydrocarbon  0.1  % Max 

Applications

MTBE is a versatile compound with a wide range of applications across various industries. It serves as a key raw material in producing superabsorbent polymers, essential for manufacturing disposable diapers and feminine hygiene products. Its ability to absorb large quantities of liquids makes MTBE invaluable in personal care. Additionally, it is used in coatings, adhesives, and sealants due to its excellent adhesion and durability. In the construction industry, MTBE is incorporated into paints and emulsions, enhancing flexibility and weather resistance. Its application in construction materials improves durability and extends the lifespan of coatings. The automotive sector also uses MTBE in lightweight composite materials, contributing to better fuel efficiency and reduced emissions, supporting the industry’s push for sustainability. MTBE also plays a role in water treatment, where it is used to formulate flocculants that help remove impurities. The textile industry benefits from MTBE in finishes that improve fabric performance and appearance. With the growing demand for sustainable products, MTBE is increasingly utilized in developing bio-based materials and environmentally friendly alternatives, underscoring its importance in both industrial and consumer markets.

Methyl Tert Butyl Ether Market Price Trend provided by PriceWatch is a base price and excludes VAT/Taxes, discounts, or offers. The information herein is accurate to the best of our knowledge as of the date indicated and is provided solely for the convenience of our customers as a reference for methyl tert butyl ether. PriceWatch disclaims any warranties or representations regarding the accuracy of results derived from this information. It is the sole responsibility of the user to assess the suitability of the product for their specific application. This document does not constitute an endorsement to use the product in violation of any applicable patent rights.

The pricing of MTBE is driven by several key factors, including the cost of feedstocks like methanol and isobutylene, crude oil prices, and regional demand for gasoline additives. Additionally, fluctuations in production capacities, environmental regulations, and geopolitical events can impact supply and demand dynamics. Procurement heads should keep an eye on these variables to make informed purchasing decisions and manage costs effectively.

Changes in crude oil prices have a significant impact on MTBE pricing trends. As MTBE is derived from petroleum products, rising crude oil prices typically lead to higher production costs, which can translate into increased MTBE prices. Conversely, when crude oil prices fall, production costs may decrease, potentially lowering MTBE prices. Procurement heads should monitor crude oil market trends closely to anticipate potential price movements in MTBE.

The price outlook for MTBE is influenced by various factors, including global supply-demand dynamics, raw material costs, and regulatory changes regarding fuel standards. In the near term, procurement heads should anticipate potential price volatility due to fluctuating crude oil prices and shifts in gasoline demand. To prepare, they should engage in strategic sourcing, consider long-term contracts with suppliers, and maintain a diversified supplier base to mitigate risks associated with sudden price increases.

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