A Review of Catalytic Converter Development for Controlling Emissions from Methanol Engines

The question of whether methanol-fuelled engines can provide needed reductions in output of regulated exhaust pollutants without corresponding increases in formaldehyde levels is still not clearly answered. If ongoing engine development fails to bring formaldehyde down to diesel or gasoline engine levels, or if aldehyde output is separately regulated, catalytic exhaust after-treatment could be required for methanol-fuelled engines. This paper provides an overview of current industry philosophies, research work and testing regarding catalytic converters for methanol fuel, with particular emphasis, on applications for heavy duty compression-ignition type engines.