Methyl tret-amyl ether (TAME) is a representative of simple ethers, a product of the interaction of methanol with isobutylene, which is well soluble in petrol. TAME is used as a motor fuel additive to increase the octane number of petrol. TAME is a non-toxic component and oxygenate to provide the most efficient combustion of fuel and prevent metal corrosion. TAME reduces the consumption of petroleum products. The main difference between TAME and MTBE (methyl tret-butyl ether) is its low saturated vapour pressure and high calorific value. These aspects have a positive effect on the performance of the fuel.
TAME is a low-hazard, low-toxicity substance. Methyl-tret-amyl ether is a colourless liquid with an ethereal odour; soluble in ethanol, diethyl ether, poorly soluble in water. It is easily inflammable and forms explosive mixtures with air. Methyl tret-amyl ether (MTAE) is used as a high-octane component of motor gasoline, similar to methyl tret-butyl ether (MTBE). However, unlike MTBE, MTAE has a lower saturated vapour pressure and a higher combustion heat, which is very important in terms of fuel performance.
Due to bound oxygen, MTAE contributes to the reduction of carbon monoxide in the combustion products by increasing the completeness of fuel combustion. MTAE has a high octane mixing number (about 100 according to the motor method and about 112 according to the research method).
