The impact of using an in-cylinder catalyst on the exhaust gas emission in real driving conditions tests of a Diesel engine

Abstract

The article discusses the use of an in-cylinder catalyst, which allows the reduction of harmful exhaust compounds emissions during the internal combustion engine operation. It is a type of exhaust gas aftertreatment system – however, its placement in the combustion chamber – thus as close to the combustion process as possible, allows counteracting the production of pollutants at the source (catalyst applied on glow plugs). This is necessary because the reduction of exhaust emissions from vehicles is a key aspect of reducing the negative environmental impact of transport. The article presents the research results on the in-cylinder catalyst evaluation in dynamic operating conditions – the evaluation was made in road tests using the latest procedures recommended by the European Union. The presented comparative test results concern the road emission of limited vehicle exhaust compounds with the use of standard glow plugs and glow plugs with the catalytic layer applied. The use of an in-cylinder catalyst (on glow plugs) during diverse engine operating conditions results in a few percent reduction in the mass of carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons, carbon dioxide and the number of solid particles. The use of such a solution, technically possible to introduce quickly (replacement of a glow plug) in most vehicles with Diesel engines, would improve the overall ecological properties of internal combustion engines.