Effects of Microstructure and Cell Geometry on Performance of Cordierite Diesel Particulate Filters

Cordierite has been the cost-effective material of choice for diesel particulate filters (DPFs) for heavy duty vehicles due to its combination of excellent thermal shock resistance, filtration efficiency, and durability under most operating conditions. However, it has been observed that under some conditions of uncontrolled regeneration at moderately high soot loading, localized regions of melting in cordierite DPF bodies can occur.

A new cordierite monolithic diesel particulate filter has been developed for medium and heavy duty trucks for OEM and retrofit applications. Through modification in pore microstructure and filter cell geometry, this new DPF provides improved survivability during uncontrolled regenerations, reduced pressure drop, and improved thermal shock resistance and strength.