Fast Multicomponent Exhaust Gas Analyzer for Dynamic Exhaust Measurements

A sensitive laser mass spectrometer has been developed for fast multicomponent automotive exhaust analyses. The system is particularly appropriate for working at dynamic motor test stands and provides the following features:

• Detection of all individual organic and inorganic exhaust constituents with 1 ppm sensitivity
• Simultaneous detection of up to 12 selectable exhaust compounds with a measurement rate of up to 100 Hz
• 2 ms time precision relative to the motor phase - Ruggedness for operation at engine test facilities

This system has been used at a motor test facility to investigate the emissions of aromatic hydrocarbons benzene, toluene, xylene, and of nitrogen oxide in stationary and dynamic engine operation.

These measurements demonstrate some of the capabilities of the analysis system to obtain fundamental information about the combustion processes and about processes in the exhaust pipe. This is essential for the development of the engine and engine control systems and other efforts to reduce emission of pollutants.