Showing papers on "NOx published in 1994"

Air pollution and health

Abstract: This paper outlines the history of air pollution in the UK, describes the types of pollutant now in the atmosphere, and discusses the relation between air pollution and health. The primary pollutants, which are directly discharged into the atmosphere, often from vehicle exhaust emissions, are: (1) sulphur dioxide (SO2); (2) nitrogen oxides (NOx); (3) smoke and particulates; (4) carbon monoxide (CO); (5) carbon dioxide (CO2); (6) organic compounds; and (7) metals, especially lead and calcium. The secondary pollutants, derived from primary pollutants, by chemical changes, include: (1) ground ozone, an important constituent of photochemical smog; and (2) acid aerosols. It is now proved beyond reasonable doubt that sufficiently high concentrations of atmospheric pollution have severe health effects. Various biological and medical methodologies can be used to evaluate their effects on health. Asthma and rhinitis are two important respiratory diseases, whose causes include air pollution. For the covering abstract see IRRD 869702.

Development of Ozone Reactivity Scales for Volatile Organic Compounds

Abstract: This paper discusses methods for ranking photochemical ozone formation reactivities of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Photochemical mechanisms for the atmospheric reactions of 118 VOCs were used to calculate their effects on ozone formation under various NOx conditions in model scenarios representing 39 different urban areas. Their effects on ozone were used to derive 18 different ozone reactivity scales, one of which is the Maximum Incremental Reactivity (MIR) scale used in the new California Low Emission Vehicle and Clean Fuel Regulations. These scales are based on three different methods for quantifying ozone impacts and on six different approaches for dealing with the dependencies of reactivity on NOx. The predictions of the scales are compared, the reasons for their similarities and differences are discussed, and the sensitivities of the scales to NOx and other scenario conditions are examined. Scales based on peak ozone levels were highly dependent on NOx, but those based on integrated ...

The biology of nitrogen oxides in the airways.

Abstract: Nitrogen oxides (NOx), regarded in the past primarily as toxic air pollutants, have recently been shown to be bioactive species formed endogenously in the human lung. The relationship between the toxicities and the bioactivities of NOx must be understood in the context of their chemical interactions in the pulmonary microenvironment. Nitric oxide synthase (NOS) is a newly identified enzyme system active in airway epithelial cells, macrophages, neutrophils, mast cells, autonomic neurons, smooth muscle cells, fibroblasts, and endothelial cells. The chemical products of NOS in the lung vary with disease states, and are involved in pulmonary neurotransmission, host defense, and airway and vascular smooth muscle relaxation. Further, certain patients with pulmonary hypertension, adult respiratory distress syndrome and asthma may experience physiologic improvement with NOx therapy, including inhalation of nitric oxide (NO.) gas. Both endogenous and exogenous NOx react readily with oxygen, superoxide, water, nucl...

Catalytic Air Pollution Control: Commercial Technology

Abstract: Preface. ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS. ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS, FIRST EDITION. ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS, SECOND EDITION. I. FUNDAMENTALS. 1. Catalyst Fundamentals. 1.1 Introduction. 1.2 Catalyzed Verses Non-Catalyzed Reactions. 1.3 Catalytic Components. 1.4 Selectivity. 1.5 Promoters and their Effect on Activity and Selectivity. 1.6 Dispersed Model for Catalytic Component on Carrier: Pt on Al 2 O 3 . 1.7 Chemical and Physical Steps in Heterogeneous Catalysis. 1.8 Practical Significance of knowing the Rate-Limiting Step. 2. The Preparation of Catalytic Materials: Carriers, Active Components, and Monolithic Substrates. 2.1 Introduction. 2.2 Carriers. 2.3 Making the Finished Catalyst. 2.4 Nomenclature for Dispersed Catalysts. 2.5 Monolithic Materials as Catalyst Substrates. 2.6 Preparing Monolithic Catalysts. 2.7 Catalytic Monoliths. 2.8 Catalyzed Monoliths Nomenclature. 2.9 Precious Metal Recovery from Monolithic Catalysts. 3. Catalyst Characterization. 3.1 Introduction. 3.2 Physical Properties of Catalysts. 3.3 Chemical and Physical Morphology Structures of Catalytic Materials . 3.4 Techniques for Fundamental Studies. 4. Monolithic Reactors for Environmental Catalysis. 4.1 Introduction. 4.2 Chemical Kinetic Control. 4.3 The Arrhenius Equation and Reaction Parameters. 4.4 Bulk Mass Transfer. 4.5 Reactor Bed Pressure Drop. 4.6 Summary. 5. Catalyst Deactivation. 5.1 Introduction. 5.2 Thermally Induced Deactivation. 5.3 Poisoning. 5.4 Washcoat Loss. 5.5 General Comments on Deactivation Diagnostics in Monolithic Catalysts for Environmental Applications. II. MOBILE SOURCE. 6. Automotive Catalyst. 6.1 Emissions and Regulations. 6.2 The Catalytic Reactions for Pollution Abatement. 6.3 The Physical Structure of the Catalytic Converter. 6.4 First-Generation Converters: Oxidation Catalyst (1976-1979). 6.5 NOx, CO and HC Reduction: The Second Generation: The Three Way Catalyst (1979 - 1986). 6.6 Vehicle Test Procedures (U.S., European and Japanese). 6.7 NOx, CO and HC Reduction: The Third Generation (1986 - 1992). 6.8 Palladium TWC Catalyst: The Fourth Generation (Mid-1990s). 6.9 Low Emission Catalyst Technologies. 6.10 Modern TWC Technologies for the 2000s. 6.11 Towards a Zero-Emission Stoichiometric Spark-Ignit Vehicle. 6.12 Engineered Catalyst Design. 6.13 Lean-Burn Spark-Ignited Gasoline Engines. 7. Automotive Substrates. 7.1 Introduction to Ceramic Substrates. 7.2 Requirements for Substrates. 7.3 Design Sizing of Substrates. 7.4 Physical Properties of Substrates. 7.5 Physical Durability. 7.6 Advances in Substrates. 7.7 Commercial Applications. 7.8 Summary. 8. Diesel Engine Emissions. 8.1 Introduction. 8.2 Worldwide Diesel Emission Standards. 8.3 NO x -Particulate Tradeoff. 8.4 Analytical Procedures for Particulates. 8.5 Particulate Removal. 8.6 NOX Reduction Technologies. 8.7 2007 Commercial System Designs (PM Removal Only). 8.8 2010 Commercial System Approaches under Development (PM and NO x Removal). 8.9 Retrofit and Off-Highway. 8.10 Natural Gas Engines. 9. Diesel Catalyst Supports and Particulate Filters. 9.1 Introduction. 9.2 Health Effects of Diesel Particulate Emissions. 9.3 Diesel Oxidation Catalyst Supports. 9.4 Design/Sizing of Diesel Particulate Filter. 9.5 Regeneration Techniques. 9.6 Physical Properties and Durability. 9.7 Advances in Diesel Filters. 9.8 Applications. 9.9 Summary. 10. Ozone Abatement within Jet Aircraft. 10.1 Introduction. 10.2 Ozone Abatement. 10.3 Deactivation. 10.4 Analysis of In-Flight Samples. 10.5 New Technology. III. STATIONARY SOURCES. 11. Volatile Organic Compounds . 11.1 Introduction. 11.2 Catalytic Incineration. 11.3 Halogenated Hydrocarbons. 11.4 Food Processing. 11.5 Wood Stoves. 11.6 Process Design. 11.7 Deactivation. 11.8 Regeneration of Deactivated Catalysts. 12. Reduction of NO x . 12.1 Introduction. 12.2 Nonselective Catalytic Reduction of NOx. 12.3 Selective Catalytic Reduction of NOx. 12.4 Commercial Experience. 12.5 Nitrous Oxide (N 2 O). 12.6 Catalytically Supported Thermal Combustion. 13. Carbon Monoxide and Hydrocarbon Abatement from Gas Turbines. 13.1 Introduction. 13.2 Catalyst for CO Abatement. 13.3 Non-Methane Hydrocarbon (NMHC) Removal. 13.4 Oxidation of Reactive Hydrocarbons. 13.5 Oxidation of Unreactive Light Paraffins. 13.6 Catalyst Deactivation. 14. Small Engines. 14.1 Introduction. 14.2 Emissions. 14.3 EPA Regulations. 14.4 Catalyst for Handheld and Nonhandheld Engines. 14.5 Catalyst Durability. IV. NEW AND EMERGING TECHNOLOGIES. 15. Ambient Air Cleanup. 15.1 Introduction. 15.2 Premair (R) Catalyst Systems. 15.3 Other Approaches. 16. Fuel Cells and Hydrogen Generation. 16.1 Introduction. 16.2 Low-Temperature PEM Fuel Cell Technology. 16.3 The Ideal Hydrogen Economy. 16.4 Conventional Hydrogen Generation. 16.5 Hydrogen Generation from Natural Gas for PEM Fuel Cells. 16.6 Other Fuel Cell Systems. INDEX.

Mechanism of the Selective Catalytic Reduction of Nitric Oxide by Ammonia Elucidated by in Situ On-Line Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy

Abstract: The selective catalytic reduction reaction of nitric oxide bv ammonia over vanadia-titania catalysts is one of the methods of removing NOx pollution. In the present study, it has been possible to identify the reaction mechanism and the nature of the active sites in these catalysts by combining transient or steady-state in situ (Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy) experiments directly with on-line activity studies. The results suggest a catalytic cycle that consists of both acid and redox reactions and involves both surface V-OH (Bronsted acid sites) and V=O species. A fundamental microkinetic model is proposed, which accounts for the observed industrial kinetics performance.

Growth of Continental-Scale Metro-Agro-Plexes, Regional Ozone Pollution, and World Food Production

Abstract: Three regions of the northern mid-latitudes, the continental-scale metro-agro-plexes, presently dominate global industrial and agricultural productivity. Although these regions cover only 23 percent of the Earth's continents, they account for most of the world's commercial energy consumption, fertilizer use, food-crop production, and food exports. They also account for more than half of the world's atmospheric nitrogen oxide (NOx,) emissions and, as a result, are prone to ground-level ozone (O(3)) pollution during the summer months. On the basis of a global simulation of atmospheric reactive nitrogen compounds, it is estimated that about 10 to 35 percent of the world's grain production may occur in parts of these regions where ozone pollution may reduce crop yields. Exposure to yield-reducing ozone pollution may triple by 2025 if rising anthropogenic NOx emissions are not abated.

Mechanism of the selective reduction of nitrogen monoxide on platinum-based catalysts in the presence of excess oxygen

Abstract: A range of alumina-supported platinum catalysts have been prepared and investigated for the selective reduction of nitrogen monoxide in the presence of a large excess of oxygen. Steady-state microreactor experiments have demonstrated that these catalysts are very active and selective for the reduction of nitrogen monoxide by propene at temperatures as low as 200°C. There does not appear to be a simple correlation between the activity for nitrogen monoxide reduction and the platinum surface area. Instead it is found that there is a very good inverse correlation between the maximum nitrogen monoxide reduction activity and the temperature. The most active catalysts for selective nitrogen monoxide reduction are those that generate activity at the lowest temperature. The technique of temporal analysis of products (TAP) has been used to obtain detailed mechanistic data about the selective nitrogen monoxide reduction reaction on an alumina-supported platinum catalyst. Using carbon monoxide, hydrogen or propene as reductant it has been demonstrated that the predominant mechanism for selective nitrogen monoxide reduction involves the decomposition of nitrogen monoxide on reduced platinum metal sites, followed by the regeneration of the active platinum sites by the reductant. In the decomposition step it has been shown that oxygen from nitrogen monoxide is retained on the surface of the platinum and blocks the surface for further adsorption/reaction of nitrogen monoxide; it has been observed that oxidised platinum catalysts are not active for the nitrogen monoxide reduction reaction. Under typical operating conditions, propene is a far more efficient reductant than either carbon monoxide or hydrogen. The greater efficiency of propene as a reductant is explained on the basis of the additional reducing power of the propene molecule, which can react with as many as nine adsorbed oxygen atoms, ensuring that 'patches' of reduced platinum are available for nitrogen monoxide adsorption/reaction. A small additional activity of reduced platinum in the presence of propene, which is not observed when carbon monoxide or hydrogen is used as reductant, has been explained on the basis of a second mechanism involving the carbon-assisted decomposition of nitrogen monoxide at sites on the reduced platinum adjacent to adsorbed carbon-containing moieties, believed to be fragments from adsorbed propene molecules. A model for the selective reduction of nitrogen monoxide on alumina-supported platinum catalysts is presented which is capable of explaining all the results obtained in this work and in the published literature on this subject.

Kinetics of the reaction of nitric oxide with oxygen in aqueous solutions.

Abstract: An understanding of the rate of reaction of nitric oxide (NO) with oxygen in aqueous solutions is needed in assessing the various actions of NO in the body. A novel approach was developed for studying the kinetics of this reaction, which permitted simultaneous and continuous measurements of the concentrations of NO and the principal product, nitrite (NO2-). Nitric oxide was measured using a chemiluminescence detector, with continuous sampling achieved by diffusion of NO through a membrane fitted into the base of a small, stirred reactor. The results with various initial NO and O2 concentrations confirmed that the rate of reaction is second-order in NO and first-order in O2. The rate of reaction of NO was described by the expression 4k1 [NO]2[O2], where k1 was (2.1 +/- 0.4) x 10(6) M-2 s-1 at 23 degrees C and (2.4 +/- 0.3) x 10(6) M-2 s-1 at 37 degrees C. The value of k1 was the same at pH 4.9 and 7.4. The rate of formation of NO2- equaled the rate of reaction of NO (within experimental uncertainty of a few percent), and there was no detectable formation of nitrate (NO3-). This confirmed that NO and NO2- were the only NOx species present in significant amounts and supported the validity of pseudo-steady-state assumptions for NO2 and N2O3, which are intermediates in the conversion of NO to NO2-.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Role of deep cloud convection in the ozone budget of the troposphere.

Abstract: Convective updrafts in thunderstorms prolong the lifetime of ozone (O(3)) and its anthropogenic precursor NOx [nitric oxide (NO) + nitrogen dioxide (NO(2))] by carrying these gases rapidly upward from the boundary layer into a regime where the O(3) production efficiency is higher, chemical destruction is slower, and surface deposition is absent. On the other hand, the upper troposphere is relatively rich in O(3) and NOx from natural sources such as downward transport from the stratosphere and lightning; convective overturning conveys the O(3) and NOx toward the Earth's surface where these components are more efficiently removed from the atmosphere. Simulations with a three-dimensional global model suggest that the net result of these counteractive processes is a 20 percent overall reduction in total tropospheric O(3). However, the net atmospheric oxidation efficiency is enhanced by 10 to 20 percent.

Trace gas emissions from biomass burning in tropical Australian savannas

Abstract: During the 1991 and 1992 dry seasons (April to October), we collected and analyzed over 100 samples of smoke from savanna fires at the Kapalga Research Station (12°S, 132°E) in Kakadu National Park, Northern Territory, Australia. Samples collected from the ground and from a light aircraft flying at 50–700 m above the fires were analyzed for CO2, CO, CH4, C2H2, C6H6, CH2O, CH3CHO, NOx (= NO + NO2), NH3, HCN, and CH3CN using gas phase Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, matrix isolation FTIR spectroscopy, and chemiluminescence techniques. In addition, we made detailed analyses of the mass, carbon, and nitrogen loads of the prefire fuel and the postfire ash residue. Molar emission ratios relative to emitted CO2 and CO, and emission factors relative to the fuel carbon or nitrogen burned were determined for the measured trace gases. Over 96% of the fuel carbon burned was released to the atmosphere, predominantly as CO2 (87±3% of fuel C) and CO (7.8±2.3%). The mean ΔCO/ΔCO2 emission ratio of 9.0±2.6% indicates efficient combustion in these fires of grasses and other light fuels. The main nitrogen-based emissions we measured were NOx (21±8% of fuel N) and NH3 (23±13%). The combined emissions of NOx, NH3, N2O, CH3CN, and HCN accounted for only 51±17% of the fuel N released to the atmosphere during combustion. We use these measurements to estimate the annual emissions of several important trace gases from savanna burning in Australia.

Total reactive nitrogen (NO y ) as an indicator of the sensitivity of ozone to reductions in hydrocarbon and NO x emissions

Abstract: For areas in the United States not meeting the federal air quality standard for ozone, an issue of continuing controversy is the emphasis to be placed on controlling nitrogen oxides (NOx) in addition to emissions of reactive organic gases (ROG). To assess conditions under which ROG or NOx controls would be most effective, we have analyzed predictions from four studies that represent different locations and meteorological conditions, distinct chemical inputs, e.g., with or without significant biogenic emissions, and different air quality models. A consistent association is found between the sensitivity of ozone to reductions in ROG versus NOx emissions and the simulated total reactive nitrogen (NOy) at the time and place of peak ozone. In the studies examined, ozone was predicted to be reduced most effectively by ROG controls at locations where NOy concentrations exceeded a threshhold value falling in the range of 10 to 25 ppb, whereas NOx controls were predicted to be more effective where NOy concentrations were below that threshhold. The NOy level explains much of the difference in ozone sensitivity at different locations and provides a basis for comparison of predicted sensitivity from different models. In contrast, the morning concentration ratio of ROG to NOx that has been used in the past is a less reliable indicator of O3 sensitivity. Measurement of NOy concentrations along with ozone would assist in empirical testing of model predictions of responses to emission reductions.

Low and high NOx tropospheric photochemistry

Abstract: Emission inputs to the troposphere are processed in two fundamentally different ways, leading to two atmospheric states with greatly different properties. We define these states in terms of rates of NOx emissions and radical production. In the low NOx state, trace gas inputs to the atmosphere are removed primarily by oxidation reactions. In the high NOx state the oxidative potential of the atmosphere is greatly diminished and primary pollutants build up, as alternate removal processes are slow. We show here that this dual behavior is due to a titrationlike reaction between NOx and free radicals in which either reactant can be in excess.

O3 and NO y relationships at a rural site

Abstract: Measurements of O3, NO, NO2, peroxyacetyl nitrate (PAN), HNO3, and NOy were made during a 6-week period in the summer of 1991 in Giles County, Tennessee. These data were analyzed to determine the factors controlling the relationship between O3 and NOy at this rural site. A strong association was observed between the O3 and NOx oxidation product (NOz = NOy - NOx) levels. The higher O3 levels were associated with air masses impacted by higher NOx emissions that had been photochemically processed. An analysis of the data indicates that the ultimate O3 production is about 10 molecules of O3 produced for each molecule of NOx emitted. The analysis results also suggest that O3 net production continues until about 70% of the NOx has been converted into NOz. The PAN/HNO3 ratios observed suggest that the air masses in Giles County are composed of higher volatile organic carbon/NOx ratios than the air masses observed at other rural sites in eastern North America. A comparison of the data analysis results to model simulations and smog chamber experiments suggests that most of the time, Giles County is in an NOx-limited regime for O3 production.

OH radical‐ initiated photooxidation of isoprene: An estimate of global CO production

Abstract: The OH radical- initiated photooxidation of isoprene has been investigated experimentally by a 6-m3 photochemical reaction chamber equipped with a long path length Fourier transform infrared spectrometer. In the presence of NOx, the major primary reaction products were methyl vinyl ketone, methacrolein, and formaldehyde. Their yields were in quantitative agreement with previous measurements. In the absence of NOx, the reaction mechanism was found to be quite different from that in the presence of NOx, and major reaction products observed in the infrared spectra were attributed to organic hydroperoxides. Based on the model experiments, the ultimate yield of CO was evaluated to be 60% on the carbon number basis in the presence of NOx and 23% in the absence of NOx. The CO yield in the real atmosphere was evaluated as 30% on the carbon number basis, and global annual CO production from isoprene was estimated to be 105 Tg C yr−1. Together with a previous estimate of the CO production from terpenes, global CO production from natural hydrocarbons was evaluated to be 200±60 Tg C yr−1.

Combustion exhaust purification system and method

Abstract: The present invention is particularly well suited for purifying exhaust from relatively large lean burn diesel engines. A computer controlled injector intermittently injects an optimal amount of NOx reducing fluid into the exhaust passageway from the engine. The optimal amount corresponds to an amount that will achieve optimal NOx reduction rates for the given engine operating condition and exhaust temperature. A computer periodically senses the engine operating condition and the exhaust temperature, and calculates the appropriate injection amount. With appropriate deNOx and oxidation catalysts located downstream from the injector, the exhaust purification system of the present invention has the ability to greatly reduce NOx content of the exhaust while maintaining HC emissions at acceptable levels.

Combustion control for producing low NOx emissions through use of flame spectroscopy

Abstract: Combustion in a gas turbine is controlled through use of flame spectroscopy in order to achieve low NO x emissions in the exhaust. By monitoring the combustion flame in the turbine to determine intensity of non-infrared spectral lines, and dynamically adjusting the fuel/air ratio of the fuel mixture such that this intensity remains below a predetermined level associated with a desired low level of NO x emissions, the engine produces significantly reduced NO x emissions in its exhaust but at a sufficiently high combustion flame temperature to avoid any undue risk of flame-out, thereby assuring stable, safe and reliable operation.

Measurements of Emissions and Radiation for Methane Combustion within a Porous Medium Burner

Abstract: In this paper, we report the results of an experimental investigation of methane-air combustion within a porous medium burner for various equivalence ratios and flow rates. Measurements of emissions and radiant output are presented. The results indicate that CO and NOx, emissions increase with flame speed. For a given equivalence ratio, however, NOx, emissions are fairly constant over the range of flame speed studied. The radiant output increases but the radiant thermal efficiency decreases with flame speed.

Removal of NO from flue gases by absorption to an iron(ii) thiochelate complex and subsequent reduction to ammonia

Abstract: THE combustion of fossil fuels generates SO2 and NOX pollutants which cause acid rain and urban smog1 Existing flue-gas desulphurization scrubbers involve wet limestone processes which are efficient for controlling SO2 emissions but are incapable of removing water-insoluble nitric oxide The current technique for postcombustion control of nitrogen oxide emissions, ammonia-based selective catalytic reduction, suffers from various problems2,3, including poisoning of the catalysts by fly ash rich in arsenic or alkali, disposal of spent toxic catalysts and the effects of ammonia by-products on plant components downstream from the reactor To circumvent the need for separate schemes to control SO2 and NOX, we have developed an iron(ii) thiochelate complex that enhances the solubility of NO in aqueous solution by rapidly and efficiently absorbing NO to form iron nitrosyl complexes The bound NO is then converted to ammonia by electrochemical reduction, regenerating the active iron(ii) catalyst for continued NO capture Our results suggest that this process can be readily integrated into existing wet limestone scrubbers for the simultaneous removal of SO2 and NOX

Anomalous HNO3/NOx ratio of remote tropospheric air: Conversion of nitric acid to formic acid and NOx?

Abstract: The N oxidation ratio, (HNO3)/(NO(x)), in the free troposphere is measured at approx. 1 to 9 (averaging approx. 5), consistently lower than the values of 15-100 which known theory suggests to be reached rapidly. This discrepancy casts doubt on current models' abilities to predict effects of NO sources on remote (NO), and so also (O3) and (OH). HNO3-to-NO(x) recycling processes involving HCHO in solution are appealing explanations for the ratio. Known chemical theory are illustrated using a Lagrangian box model of the mid-troposphere which simulates characteristic episodes form NO(x) input to HNO3 washout. Ratio and budget constraint equations for No(y) can usefully restrict conceivable explanations of missing chemistry of fast nitrogen cycling; most explanations could be called 'fast-cycles' or 're-NO(x)-ification.' These equations also show how current global models may suggest spuriously good N oxidation ratios and errors in OH. Aerosol or cloud droplets reactions with HCHO may produce (a) formic acid (which needs an appropriate source) and NO(x), or alternatively, (b) hydroxymethyl nitrate (or methyl dinitrate), which might supply a large, variable amount of 'missing NO(y) not currently measurable except by NO(y) instruments.

Engine exhaust gas purification device

Abstract: An exhaust gas purification device comprising a three way catalyst, an oxidizing catalyst and a NOx absorbent which are arranged in this order in the exhaust passage. A rich air-fuel mixture is burned in the combustion chamber, and secondary air is supplied upstream of the three way catalyst so as to make the air-fuel ratio of the exhaust gas flowing into the three way catalyst a rich air-fuel ratio greater than the air-fuel ratio of the air-fuel mixture burned in the combustion chamber. Further, secondary air is supplied upstream of the oxidizing catalyst to make the air-fuel ratio of the exhaust gas flowing into the oxidizing catalyst and the NOx absorbent slightly leaner than the stoichiometric air-fuel ratio.

Exhaust emissions from light- and heavy-duty vehicles: chemical composition, impact of exhaust after treatment, and fuel parameters.

Abstract: This paper presents results from the characterization of vehicle exhaust that were obtained primarily within the Swedish Urban Air Project, "Tatortsprojektet." Exhaust emissions from both gasoline- and diesel-fueled vehicles have been investigated with respect to regulated pollutants (carbon monoxide [CO], hydrocarbon [HC], nitrogen oxides [NOx], and particulate), unregulated pollutants, and in bioassay tests (Ames test, TCDD receptor affinity tests). Unregulated pollutants present in both the particle- and the semi-volatile phases were characterized. Special interest was focused on the impact of fuel composition on heavy-duty diesel vehicle emissions. It was confirmed that there exists a quantifiable relationship between diesel-fuel variables of the fuel blends, the chemical composition of the emissions, and their biological effects. According to the results from the multivariate analysis, the most important fuel parameters are: polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) content, 90% distillation point, final boiling point, specific heat, aromatic content, density, and sulfur content.

METHOD FOR REDUCING EMISSIONS OF NOx AND PARTICULATES FROM A DIESEL ENGINE

Abstract: A method improves the operation of a diesel engine (10) through the use of a fluel additive in container (50), a diesel particulate trap (20) and an NOx-reducing catalyst in chamber (30). The operation of the NOx-reducing catalyst is enhanced by the introduction of urea or like compound upstream in mixing device (60) of the catalyst at temperatures effective for non-catalytic NOx reduction and the generation of ammonia. The additive comprises fuel-soluble compositions of platinum group metal in effective amounts to lower the emissions of unburned hydrocarbons and carbon monoxide form the trap. The catalytic activity provided to the exhaust system (20 and 30) by the fuel additive is selective and preferably reduces the oxidation of SO2 to SO3. The platinum group metal compositions are preferably added in amounts effective to provide concentrations of the metal in the fuel in fuel tank (40) of less than 1 part per million (ppm). Lithium and/or sodium compositions can be used in amounts effective to reduce the trap regeneration temperature, e.g. concentrations to provide about 1 to 100 ppm lithium metal, and/or 1 tp 30 ppm sodium metal.