Subscribe now

THE stench of petrol at filling stations could soon be a thing of the past,
the ACS heard.

For every litre of petrol that goes into your tank, about a gram of vapour is
released into the air. The hydrocarbons in petrol contribute to ozone and smog,
and its aromatic compounds are suspected carcinogens and in high doses can cause
leukaemia. An additive called methyl-tert-butyl ether (MTBE) adds a
pungent smell to the fumes.

“There have been reports of feeling unwell after exposure to MTBE, and it has
caused tumours in animal experiments,” says Melinda Henry at the World Health…

Sign up to our weekly newsletter

Receive a weekly dose of discovery in your inbox. We'll also keep you up to date with New Scientist events and special offers.

Sign up

To continue reading, subscribe today with our introductory offers


Piano Exit Overlay Banner Mobile Piano Exit Overlay Banner Desktop