EMISSIONS STUDY OF OXYGEN ENRICHED AIR

An engine dynamometer study was made to determine the effects of oxygen enriched air on exhaust emissions. Compared to operation with lean air-fuel mixtures, the results indicated that hydrocarbon emissions were reduced substantially, carbon monoxide emissions were similar, and oxides of nitrogen emissions increased significantly. Octane requirements and fuel consumption were higher with oxygen enrichment. These emission and performance characteristics are due to the higher peak combustion temperatures associated with oxygen concentrations of greater than the 21% normally found in air.