The use of a diesel particulate filter (DPF) is one of the most flexible methods of reducing particulate emissions from diesel engines, and has the advantage of controlling both the number and mass of particulate emissions. To maintain engine performance over time, the soot accumulated in the filter needs to be removed by oxidation.
This paper describes the development of a novel iron based fuel-borne additive that controls soot deposit build-up in DPFs. This technology controls soot accumulation at significantly lower treat rates than those of previously reported [1] additives at temperatures well below those previously required for soot combustion. Ash accumulation testing and the chemical characterisation of the ash are also described.
Any successful solution to the problem of soot accumulation in the filter needs to be harm free in the field. The complete VERT (Verminderung der Emissionen von Real-Dieselmotoren im Tunnelbau - Curtailing Emissions from Diesel Engines in Tunnel Construction) protocol was carried out on the additive and DPF system to verify the impact on emissions. In addition, long term additive stability and compatibility with fuel has been confirmed.
The application to a vehicle of this additive technology is also described in detail. This includes the description of computer modelling to evaluate the effects of the use of systems with fuel-borne additives on vehicle architecture, and impact on service interval or lifetime.