Understanding the effect of biofuels on particulate emissions

点击翻译按钮获取中文摘要

Vehicles are a large source of Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions contributing 24% of Canada's total emissions. Typically, there are tradeoffs between GHG emissions and air pollutant emissions such as particulate matter. For example, the direct injection of fuel in gasoline spark ignition engines reduces fuel consumption (hence GHG emissions) but increases particulate emissions. Diesel compression ignition engines are more fuel efficient than gasoline spark ignition engines but form more particulate matter. One option that can reduce net GHG emissions and reduce particulate emissions is biomass derived fuels or biofuels. **Vehicles are a significant source of air pollutants and greenhouse gases. Diesel engine exhaust has been classified as carcinogenic to humans primarily due to the fine particulates it contains. Vehicles contribute 24% of Ontario's particulate matter emissions with diameters smaller than 2.5 microns which are the most hazardous. Government regulations are currently reducing vehicle particulate emissions by 70%. Many components can impact the particulate emissions including the fuel properties, ignition timing, fuel/air mixing and diesel particulate filter, among other. Engine designers need a thorough understanding of how these combustion generated particulates form in order to optimize these systems for the minimum particulate emissions while minimize fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. **This CRD proposal focuses on understanding the relationship between biofuels and particulate formation. In particular, the biofuel's chemical structure can influence particulate formation. The research conducts laboratory experimental and numerical investigations in order to understand the effect of biofuels on particulate emissions. This understanding is translated to Ford's Powertrain Engineering Research and Development Centre (PERDC) in Windsor though reports, meetings, student co-supervision and student internships at the Center. The benefits include better understanding of biofuel combustion and particulate formation; training of HQPs; and support for Canada's largest powertrain engineering research and development center.**