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Answer to:  What is MMT?
 
MMT  (Methylcylclopentadienyl Manganese Tricarbonyl) is fuel additive
for unleaded gasoline.  The additive, which is an octane enhancer known
as MMT or HiTec 3000, is now in use in Canada and other parts of the
world.  The Ethyl Corp. requested a waiver from the EPA to permit the
sale of MMT octane enhancer commercially labeled by Ethyl as HiTec
3000, for use in unleaded gasoline in July, 1991.  The EPA denied the
request and Ethyl sort judicial review of the EPA decision  in the U.S.
Court of Appeals.  On July 13, 1994 the Court upheld the EPA decision
based on:
 
1) That a risk assessment on manganese emissions associated with the
use of MMT and determined that there are important unanswered questions
about potential public health risks and health effects (Parkinson's
syndrome) and exposure studies are needed.
 
2) That MMT adversely affects the performance of sophisticated emission
diagnostic systems required on new cars.  These controls are critical
to protecting air quality.
 
Ethyl has not given up on its appeal, and it is only a matter of time.
Ethyl clam is that the product is safe and it will reduce the cost of
gasoline by 2-3 cents/gal.
 
I believe that this is a very important issue for the Parkinson's
community and the general public health.
 
Thanks,
 
Bob     ([log in to unmask])