Modeling is a precious help to optimize the setting and control of Diesel particulate filter (DPF) regeneration, given the complex phenomena involved. Among those, the fuel-borne catalyst action must be taken into account, because of its prevailing effect on the soot ignition and the regeneration propagation. This paper describes how a 1D model was developed, which simulates the soot heating, ignition and oxidation along the wall-flow filter. The aim is to predict the regeneration of one filter channel, knowing the exhaust gases flow, temperature and oxygen content, and the way the filter was loaded with soot. The reaction mechanism and kinetics were experimentally studied and involve the additive action. Engine bench tests were conducted to highlight the effects of additive content, as well as the regeneration sensitivity to its main parameters (exhaust gases and soot features). Among others, it was found that additivated soot tend to pack down in the bottom of the inlet channels, thus modifying the regeneration progress, and that ignition temperature varies with the soot type.
The experimental results obtained yielded a data base, which allowed us to validate the model for various configurations. The simulations appeared to be in good agreement with experimental results. The model is thus a reliable tool to predict the progress of the filter regeneration, with and without fuel-borne catalyst.