Rates of Exhaust Gas-Air Reactions

The reactions between exhaust gas and air have been investigated in a tubular reactor fed with exhaust gas generated by a spark-ignition engine and secondary air. The test conditions were similar to those existing in experimental engine exhaust reactor systems designed to reduce exhaust gas emissions.

Rate expressions are given for the overall reactions of carbon monoxide, hydrogen, and total hydrocarbons.

During the investigation it has been observed that nitric oxide exerts a sensitizing effect on the ignition in the reactor, while some hydrocarbons, specifically isobutane, inhibit the ignition in the reactor.