Understanding and Modeling the Influence of Real Operation Conditions on Catalyst Performance
Background: Lean-burn natural gas engines, with their high efficiency and low emissions, are a promising alternative to traditional diesel or gasoline engines. However, they emit small amounts of methane due to incomplete combustion, which has a high global warming potential. This necessitates an efficient exhaust gas aftertreatment system. Palladium-based catalysts are effective for low-temperature methane conversion, but they’re hindered by water, a combustion by-product. However, with a well-designed catalytic converter and recent advancements in catalyst operation and process control, these challenges can be overcome. The development of a durable and highly efficient exhaust gas aftertreatment system could encourage the use of lean-burn natural gas engines.
Project: The relationship between catalyst structure and activity in natural gas engines is studied under real-world conditions, involving state-of-the-art catalytic reactors. A key aspect of the project is the use of time- and space-resolved emission measurements, as well as spatiotemporal insights using a capillary-based technique, which will allow for a detailed analysis of the emission control devices’ performance during real engine operation. The obtained data from the experiments serve as a database and novel input, aiding in the development and evaluation of new materials and models for improved engine efficiency.
Funding: CRC 1441 TrackAct, Project C5
Selected publications:
- P. Lott, U. Wagner, T. Koch, O. Deutschmann, Chemie Ingenieur Technik 2022, 94 (3).
- P. Lott, O. Deutschmann, Proceedings of the Combustion Institute 2023, 39 (4), 4247-4256.
- P. Lott, M. Casapu, J. D. Grunwaldt, O. Deutschmann, Applied Catalysis B: Environmental 2024, 123241.
- K. Keller, P. Lott, H. Stotz, L. Maier, O. Deutschmann, Catalysts 2020, 10(8).
- K. Keller, P. Lott, S. Tischer, M. Casapu, J. D. Grunwaldt, O. Deutschmann, ChemCatChem 2023, 15.
- S. Tomin, K. Keller, U. Wagner, P. Lott, T. Koch, O. Deutschmann, Automotive Eng. Technol. 2024, 9, 2.
