CAREER: Applications of Reformer Gas to Improve Cold Start Performance of A Homogeneous Charge Spark Ignition Engine

这项工作探索了通过使用转化气来扩大发动机在冷启动条件下稀释极限的可行性，并在实验上表征了转化气与以汽油为代表的大碳数碳氢燃料在一定压力、温度和当量比范围内的化学相互作用。研究包括使用逆流燃烧器的数字粒子成像测速仪(DPIV)测量火焰速度，以及使用活塞式反应器进行氧化散射和平面激光诱导荧光(PLIF)的表征。发动机实验是为了确定使用转化气体对冷启动碳氢化合物排放的影响。在教育计划下，研究成果被整合到课程开发中。该计划还包括大学预科阶段的外展工作，包括科学项目建议、课堂访问、动手实验室会议和实验室演示。

This effort explores the feasibility of extending the dilution limit of an engine during cold-start conditions by using reformer gas and characterizes experimentally the chemical interactions of reformer gas with large-carbon-number hydrocarbon fuels representative of gasoline over a range of pressures, temperatures, and equivalence ratios. The investigation includes determination of flame speed with digital particle-imaging velocitmetry (DPIV) using a counterflow burner, and characterization of oxidation scattering, and planar laser-induced fluorescence (PLIF) using a piston reactor. Engine experiments are conducted to determine the effect from the use of reformer gas on cold-start hydrocarbon emissions.Under the education plan, research findings are integrated into course development. The program also includes outreach efforts at the precollege level including science project advising, classroom visits, hands on laboratory sessions, and laboratory demonstrations.