An Examination of the Performance of Spark Ignition Engines Using Hydrogen-Supplemented Fuels

The performance of a hydrogen-supplemented fuels system is predicted using a semiempirical model. The prediction of this model is compared to data obtained during engine dynamometer tests of a hydrogen generator/multicylinder engine system. The test data and the predictions are also compared to the fuel consumption and emissions of the same engine in its stock configuration and indicate that the hydrogen-supplemented fuels system can improve BSFC 10-15% and simultaneously reduce NO_x emissions to a level consistent with the 1977 EPA standard. The performance of an optimized hydrogen generator/engine system is estimated. With these comparisons and estimates used as a basis, the potential of the hydrogen-supplemented fuels system is identified.