Periodically regenerating diesel particulate filter
with hydrogen addition: Towards a fuel reformer –
diesel engine aftertreatment system

Yang, Changho; Theinnoi, K; Tsolakis, A; Megaritis, Thanos; Zhao, Hua

Abstract

The introduction of various advanced diesel engine technologies has resulted in a substantial
increase of the market share of diesel engines. However, control of diesel particulate matter
(PM) and NOx emissions remains a significant challenge. Indeed, in order to meet the
stringent PM and NOx emission limits proposed by future legislation, more efficient, durable
and cost effective aftertreatment devices will be required. Ongoing research by the authors
aims to develop a diesel emissions reduction system with enhanced performance by utilisation
of hydrogen produced on-board in an exhaust gas assisted diesel fuel reformer. This type of
fuel reforming process involves the on-board generation of hydrogen-containing gas by direct
catalytic interaction of hydrocarbon fuels with engine exhaust gases. Part of the research
involves the investigation of using reformate (i.e. hydrogen-containing gas) to promote soot
oxidation and hence improve both the efficiency of the diesel particulate filter (DPF)
regeneration process as well as expanding the regeneration temperature window towards
lower exhaust gas temperatures.

This paper presents the experimental investigation of DPF regeneration at different
temperatures with addition of metered quantities of hydrogen to the exhaust gas flow
upstream of the DPF. Initial results have indicated that the addition of quantities of hydrogen
that result in hydrogen concentrations in the DPF feed gas in the range of 3-4 % (vol.) assist
the soot combustion with oxygen by increasing the temperature. This rise in temperature is a
result of heat generated as a result of hydrogen reactions within the DPF. In order to optimize
on-board hydrogen production targets for the regeneration process, a periodical strategy of
hydrogen addition to the DPF was implemented. This indicated the margin of hydrogen
quantities required.

Citation

diesel engine aftertreatment system. Poster presented at FISITA2010 World Automotive Congress, Budapest, Hungary

• Presentation Conference Type: Poster
• Conference Name: FISITA2010 World Automotive Congress
• Conference Location: Budapest, Hungary
• Start Date: May 30, 2010
• End Date: Jun 4, 2010
• Publication Date: Jan 1, 2010
• Peer Reviewed: Not Peer Reviewed
• Keywords: diesel particulate filter, regeneration, hydrogen
• Public URL: https://uwe-repository.worktribe.com/output/989454
• Publisher URL: http://www.fisita2010.com/programme/programme/F2010A116
• Additional Information: Title of Conference or Conference Proceedings : FISITA2010 World Automotive Congress