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Comparison of Emission Reduction Effectiveness of Metal Catalysts on SiC Diesel Particulate Filters

Undergraduate #340
Discipline: Technology and Engineering
Subcategory: Civil/Mechanical/Manufacturing Engineering

Keva Powell - Southern University and A&M College
Co-Author(s): Patrick Mensah, Stephen Akwaboa, Fareed Diwan, Uchenna Agu, Paula Mensah, and Donovan Alexander, Southern University, Baton Rouge, LA



Diesel Particulate Filters (DPFs) are ceramic filters most commonly used to meet stricter regulations from Environmental Protection Agency on exhaust emissions from diesel engines. Current DPFs characteristically reduce the Particulate Matter (PM) by 85 – 90% by trapping the PM within the pores of filter. However they do not have the longevity to last the life of an average vehicle and are very expensive. On average, current DPFs are replaced every 5-10 years with a cost range of $5,000 – $10,000. Which is too expensive for ordinary citizens to purchase. This research focuses on addressing the problem of longevity and cost using electroless deposition of Nickel and other metal catalyst such as copper and iron on ceramic filters. It’s known that catalytic regeneration of the ceramic filters has the potential of increasing the longevity of the DPFs. The regeneration process involves the oxidation of soot by NO2 and other exhaust gases. The oxidation of carbon (C) to carbon dioxide (CO2) occurs at about 700˚C; while the average diesel engine’s operating temperature is between 180 and 350˚C. Nickel and other metals such as copper and iron deposits on the filter act as catalyst in the oxidation of soot by NO2 by lowering the activation energy of the chemical reaction. The aim of this research is to compare the various metal catalyst on the ceramic filters in other to maximize the passive regeneration of the DPFs to improve its life span in the most cost efficient way. This research will determine and compare the oxidation rate of C to CO2 of the various metals – Nickel, copper and Iron. The anticipated results will show a higher oxidation rate of soot particles for the most effective metal catalyst. With the effective metal catalyst deposits, the oxidation rate of the soot should be comparable to the deposition rate of the PM.

Funder Acknowledgement(s): NSF-CREST 0932300; HBCU-UP ACE 1043316

Faculty Advisor: Patrick Mensah, patrick_mensah@subr.edu

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This material is based upon work supported by the National Science Foundation (NSF) under Grant No. DUE-1930047. Any opinions, findings, interpretations, conclusions or recommendations expressed in this material are those of its authors and do not represent the views of the AAAS Board of Directors, the Council of AAAS, AAAS’ membership or the National Science Foundation.

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