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Exhaust Emissions from Passenger Cars

A special issue of Energies (ISSN 1996-1073). This special issue belongs to the section "E: Electric Vehicles".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (20 February 2021) | Viewed by 38436

Special Issue Editor

Institute of Combustion Engines and Powertrains, Poznan University of Technology, Piotrowo 3, 60-965 Poznan, Poland
Interests: exhaust emission; real driving emissions; combustion engines; aftertreatment systems; electric vehicles; hybrid vehicles
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

The control and reduction of exhaust emissions are currently some of the main tasks of legislators around the world. Recent studies, conducted in many scientific centers on all continents, indicate that special attention should be paid to hybrid and electric vehicles. It is necessary to search for alternatives that will reduce emissions while maintaining the benefits of using different motor vehicle types. This Special Issue aims to encourage scientists to look for solutions for a wider perspective, both locally and globally. We welcome engine solutions, after-treatment systems, as well as concepts that have a chance to be implemented and contribute to environmental protection. Publication submissions can be in the form of original research articles or comprehensive reviews (e.g., legislative) on topics consistent with the aim and scope of the Special Issue.

Prof. Dr. Jacek Pielecha
Guest Editor

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Keywords

  • exhaust emission 
  • road tests 
  • combustion engines 
  • electromobility 
  • hybrid and electric vehicles

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Published Papers (17 papers)

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Research

25 pages, 3696 KiB  
Article
The Issues of the Air-Fuel Ratio in Exhaust Emissions Tests Carried out on a Chassis Dynamometer
by Wojciech Gis and Sławomir Taubert
Energies 2021, 14(9), 2360; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/en14092360 - 21 Apr 2021
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1590
Abstract
Vehicle exhaust emission tests use exhaust sampling systems that dilute the exhaust gas with ambient air. The dilution factor DF is calculated assuming that the combustion is complete, and that the engine is operated at a stoichiometric air-fuel ratio (AFR). These assumptions are [...] Read more.
Vehicle exhaust emission tests use exhaust sampling systems that dilute the exhaust gas with ambient air. The dilution factor DF is calculated assuming that the combustion is complete, and that the engine is operated at a stoichiometric air-fuel ratio (AFR). These assumptions are not always met. This is especially true for diesel engines. This article discusses the tests to find out what the average lambda (λ) over the ARTEMIS, WLTC and NEDC driving cycles is and how this affects the result of the emission measurements. Measurements were carried out on a chassis dynamometer equipped with a standard emission measurement system used during the homologation. The λ was calculated using the Brettschneider equation. The dilution ratio DR was also determined by measuring the CO2 concentration in the raw exhaust gas. The CO2-tracer method used for this was modified. The median of the λ for a CI vehicle was 1.23–3.31, which makes the relative percentage difference between the DF and DR (ΔDF) in the range of 28–167%. For a SI vehicle homologated under the WLTP procedure, the median of the λ for the WLTC and ARTEMIS cycles was close to one and ΔDF for most cycles does not exceed 10%. In order to reduce the influence of the error of DF determination on the result of the emission measurement, it is recommended to use exhaust gas sampling systems that allow to determine the actual dilution ratio or to use the lowest possible dilution. The PAS-CVS system seems to be the most promising. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Exhaust Emissions from Passenger Cars)
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33 pages, 55959 KiB  
Article
Scenario Analyses of Exhaust Emissions Reduction through the Introduction of Electric Vehicles into the City
by Marianna Jacyna, Renata Żochowska, Aleksander Sobota and Mariusz Wasiak
Energies 2021, 14(7), 2030; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/en14072030 - 06 Apr 2021
Cited by 33 | Viewed by 2665
Abstract
In recent years, policymakers of urban agglomerations in various regions of the world have been striving to reduce environmental pollution from harmful exhaust and noise emissions. Restrictions on conventional vehicles entering the inner city are being introduced and the introduction of low-emission measures, [...] Read more.
In recent years, policymakers of urban agglomerations in various regions of the world have been striving to reduce environmental pollution from harmful exhaust and noise emissions. Restrictions on conventional vehicles entering the inner city are being introduced and the introduction of low-emission measures, including electric ones, is being promoted. This paper presents a method for scenario analysis applied to study the reduction of exhaust emissions by introducing electric vehicles in a selected city. The original scenario analyses relating to real problems faced by contemporary metropolitan areas are based on the VISUM tool (PTV Headquarters for Europe: PTV Planung Transport Verkehr AG, 76131 Karlsruhe, Germany). For the case study, the transport model of the city of Bielsko-Biala (Poland) was used to conduct experiments with different forms of participation of electric vehicles on the one hand and traffic restrictions for high emission vehicles on the other hand. Scenario analyses were conducted for various constraint options including inbound, outbound, and through traffic. Travel time for specific transport relations and the volume of harmful emissions were used as criteria for evaluating scenarios of limited accessibility to city zones for selected types of vehicles. The comparative analyses carried out showed that the introduction of electric vehicles in the inner city resulted in a significant reduction in the emission of harmful exhaust compounds and, consequently, in an increase in the area of clean air in the city. The case study and its results provide some valuable insights and may guide decision-makers in their actions to introduce both driving ban restrictions for high-emission vehicles and incentives for the use of electric vehicles for city residents. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Exhaust Emissions from Passenger Cars)
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13 pages, 1287 KiB  
Article
Error Analysis of the Normative Calculation Method of the Exhaust Emissions and Fuel Consumption in the Vehicles Fueled with Gaseous Fuels
by Paulina Grzelak and Sławomir Taubert
Energies 2021, 14(7), 1916; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/en14071916 - 30 Mar 2021
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1324
Abstract
The methodologies for calculating exhaust emissions and fuel consumption, which are given in the normative documents, do not take into account the fact that vehicles equipped with liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) or compressed natural gas (CNG) systems are fueled with petrol after a [...] Read more.
The methodologies for calculating exhaust emissions and fuel consumption, which are given in the normative documents, do not take into account the fact that vehicles equipped with liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) or compressed natural gas (CNG) systems are fueled with petrol after a cold start. When calculating exhaust emissions and fuel consumption of LPG or CNG-powered vehicles, it is assumed that they result from the combustion of gaseous fuel only. This simplification leads to an incorrect determination of the emissions and fuel consumption values, as the formulas for calculating these values differ depending on the fuel type. This article presents the results of tests aimed at checking how that factor affects the value of emissions and fuel consumption calculated in the driving cycles used in the type-approval tests. In order to estimate the error resulting from this simplification, the tests of exhaust emissions and fuel consumption of a vehicle equipped with an LPG system were carried out. The tests were carried out on a chassis dynamometer in the worldwide harmonized light vehicles test cycle (WLTC) used in the type approval tests. In the tested vehicle, the CO, total hydrocarbons (THC), NOx and CO2 emissions calculated with the normative method were approx. 7% lower than the values calculated with the corrected method. For this reason, there is a need to develop a measurement method that allows for a separate analysis of the phase in which the vehicle is fueled with gasoline. This will allow the elimination of errors in the current normative method of calculating pollutant emissions from the exhaust system and fuel consumption of vehicles fueled with gaseous fuels. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Exhaust Emissions from Passenger Cars)
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16 pages, 7312 KiB  
Article
Analysis of Harmful Exhaust Gas Concentrations in Cloud behind a Vehicle with a Spark Ignition Engine
by Łukasz Rymaniak, Michalina Kamińska, Natalia Szymlet and Rafał Grzeszczyk
Energies 2021, 14(6), 1769; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/en14061769 - 22 Mar 2021
Cited by 14 | Viewed by 2530
Abstract
The article presents issues related to the assessment of concentrations of harmful substances in the exhaust gas cloud behind the vehicle. In the theoretical part, considerations about the harmfulness of exhaust gases and methods of detection of chemical compounds were made, and the [...] Read more.
The article presents issues related to the assessment of concentrations of harmful substances in the exhaust gas cloud behind the vehicle. In the theoretical part, considerations about the harmfulness of exhaust gases and methods of detection of chemical compounds were made, and the issues of von Karman vortices and the Lambert-Beer law were referred to. The test object was a vehicle equipped with an SI engine meeting the Euro 3 standard. The drive unit had a capacity of 2.8 dm3, a rated power reaching 142 kW at 5500 rpm and a maximum torque of 280 Nm at 3500 rpm. The measurements of the dilution of the exhaust gas cloud behind the vehicle were made in stationary conditions (laboratory) and during actual operation in the Poznań agglomeration. In the research, technically advanced equipment from the PEMS group was used. In the analysis of the obtained results, detailed considerations were made regarding the influence of the location of the measuring probe in relation to the exhaust system. As can be seen from the obtained dependencies, the vehicle motion is favorable for the assessment of concentrations behind a moving object, because the ecological indicators at successive distances behind the exhaust system achieve better parameters in most points than in a stationary test. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Exhaust Emissions from Passenger Cars)
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19 pages, 11854 KiB  
Article
Assessment of Petrol and Natural Gas Vehicle Carbon Oxides Emissions in the Laboratory and On-Road Tests
by Kazimierz Lejda, Artur Jaworski, Maksymilian Mądziel, Krzysztof Balawender, Adam Ustrzycki and Danylo Savostin-Kosiak
Energies 2021, 14(6), 1631; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/en14061631 - 15 Mar 2021
Cited by 18 | Viewed by 2591
Abstract
The problem of global warming and the related climate change requires solutions to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, in particular CO2. As a result, newly manufactured cars consume less fuel and emit lower amounts of CO2. In terms of exhaust [...] Read more.
The problem of global warming and the related climate change requires solutions to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, in particular CO2. As a result, newly manufactured cars consume less fuel and emit lower amounts of CO2. In terms of exhaust emissions and fuel consumption, old cars are significantly inferior to the more recent models. In Poland, for instance, the average age of passenger cars is approximately 13 years. Therefore, apart from developing new solutions in the cars produced today, it is important to focus on measures that enable the reduction in CO2 emissions in older vehicles. These methods include the adaptation of used cars to run on gaseous fuels. Natural gas is a hydrocarbon fuel that is particularly preferred in terms of CO2 emissions. The article presents the results of research of carbon oxides emission (CO, CO2) in the exhaust gas of a passenger car fueled by petrol and natural gas. The emissions were measured under the conditions of the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC) test and in real road tests. The test results confirm that compared to petrol, a CNG vehicle allows for a significant reduction in CO2 and CO emissions in a car that is several years old, especially in urban traffic conditions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Exhaust Emissions from Passenger Cars)
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13 pages, 4115 KiB  
Article
Comparison of Diesel Engine Vibroacoustic Properties Powered by Bio and Standard Fuel
by Radoslaw Wrobel, Gustaw Sierzputowski, Zbigniew Sroka and Radostin Dimitrov
Energies 2021, 14(5), 1478; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/en14051478 - 08 Mar 2021
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 1762
Abstract
Alternative fuels appeared soon after the first internal combustion engines were designed. The history of alternative fuels is basically as long as the history of the automotive industry. Initially, fuels whose physicochemical properties allowed for a change in parameters of the combustion process [...] Read more.
Alternative fuels appeared soon after the first internal combustion engines were designed. The history of alternative fuels is basically as long as the history of the automotive industry. Initially, fuels whose physicochemical properties allowed for a change in parameters of the combustion process in order to achieve greater efficiency and reliability were searched for. Nowadays, there are significantly more variables; in addition to the above mentioned parameters, alternative fuels are being sought that will ensure environmental protection during vehicle operation and improve the ergonomics of use. This article outlines the results of the authors’ own comparative tests of vibrations of a vibroacoustic character. Based on a popular engine model, the vibration–acoustic responses of a system powered by two types of fuel, namely, diesel and biodiesel (B10), are compared. The research consists of comparing vibrations in both time and frequency domains. In the case of the time domain, the evaluation was performed with vibrations as a function of engine torque and speed. In the case of frequency analysis, the focus was on changes in the frequency response for the tested fuels. The research shows that the profile of vibroacoustic vibrations changes in the case of biodiesel power supply in relation to standard fuel. The vibration profile changes significantly as a function of speed and only slightly in relation to the engine load. The results presented in this article show different vibroacoustic responses of an engine powered by diesel and biodiesel; the change is minor for lower speeds but significant (other harmonics are dominant) for higher speeds (changes in the dominant harmonic magnitude of up to 10% at a crankshaft speed of 3000 rpm). Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Exhaust Emissions from Passenger Cars)
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18 pages, 2775 KiB  
Article
Analysis of Technical Capabilities, Methodology and Test Results of a Light-Commercial Vehicle Conversion to Battery Electric Powertrain
by Piotr Bielaczyc, Rafal Sala and Tomasz Meinicke
Energies 2021, 14(4), 1119; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/en14041119 - 20 Feb 2021
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2037
Abstract
This paper describes a holistic development and testing approach for a battery electric vehicle (BEV) prototype based on a self-supporting body platform originating from a vehicle powered by an internal combustion engine. The topic was investigated in relation to the question of whether [...] Read more.
This paper describes a holistic development and testing approach for a battery electric vehicle (BEV) prototype based on a self-supporting body platform originating from a vehicle powered by an internal combustion engine. The topic was investigated in relation to the question of whether conversion of existing vehicle platforms is a viable approach in comparison to designing a new vehicle ab initio. The scope of work consisted of the development stage, followed by laboratory and on-road testing to verify the vehicle’s performance and driveability. The vehicle functionality targeted commercial daily use on urban routes. Based on the assumed technical requirements, the vehicle architecture was designed and components specified that included various sub-systems: electric motor powertrain, electronic control unit (ECU), high-voltage battery pack with battery management system (BMS), charging system, high and low voltage wiring harness and electrically driven auxiliary systems. Electric sub-systems were integrated into the existing vehicle on-board controller area network (CAN) bus by means of enhanced algorithms. The test methodology of the prototype electric vehicle included the vehicle range and energy consumption measurement using the EU legislative test cycle. Laboratory testing was performed at different ambient temperatures and for various characteristics of the kinetic energy recovery system. Functional and driveability testing was performed on the road, also including an assessment of overall vehicle durability. Based on the results of testing, it was determined that the final design adopted fulfilled the pre-defined criteria; benchmarking against competing solutions revealed favorable ratings in certain aspects. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Exhaust Emissions from Passenger Cars)
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21 pages, 7081 KiB  
Article
The Development of Strategies to Reduce Exhaust Emissions from Passenger Cars in Rzeszow City—Poland. A Preliminary Assessment of the Results Produced by the Increase of E-Fleet
by Maksymilian Mądziel, Tiziana Campisi, Artur Jaworski and Giovanni Tesoriere
Energies 2021, 14(4), 1046; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/en14041046 - 17 Feb 2021
Cited by 33 | Viewed by 2840
Abstract
Urban agglomerations close to road infrastructure are particularly exposed to harmful exhaust emissions from motor vehicles and this problem is exacerbated at road intersections. Roundabouts are one of the most popular intersection designs in recent years, making traffic flow smoother and safer, but [...] Read more.
Urban agglomerations close to road infrastructure are particularly exposed to harmful exhaust emissions from motor vehicles and this problem is exacerbated at road intersections. Roundabouts are one of the most popular intersection designs in recent years, making traffic flow smoother and safer, but especially at peak times they are subject to numerous stop-and-go operations by vehicles, which increase the dispersion of emissions with high particulate matter rates. The study focused on a specific area of the city of Rzeszow in Poland. This country is characterized by the current composition of vehicle fleets connected to combustion engine vehicles. The measurement of the concentration of particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10) by means of a preliminary survey campaign in the vicinity of the intersection made it possible to assess the impact of vehicle traffic on the dispersion of pollutants in the air. The present report presents some strategies to be implemented in the examined area considering a comparison of current and project scenarios characterized both by a modification of the road geometry (through the introduction of a turbo roundabout) and the composition of the vehicular flow with the forthcoming diffusion of electric vehicles. The study presents an exemplified methodology for comparing scenarios aimed at optimizing strategic choices for the local administration and also shows the benefits of an increased electric fleet. By processing the data with specific tools and comparing the scenarios, it was found that a conversion of 25% of the motor vehicles to electric vehicles in the current fleet has reduced the concentration of PM10 by about 30% along the ring road, has led to a significant reduction in the length of particulate concentration of the motorway, and it has also led to a significant reduction in the length of the particulate concentration for the access roads to the intersection. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Exhaust Emissions from Passenger Cars)
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28 pages, 11380 KiB  
Article
Heat-Up Performance of Catalyst Carriers—A Parameter Study and Thermodynamic Analysis
by Thomas Steiner, Daniel Neurauter, Peer Moewius, Christoph Pfeifer, Verena Schallhart and Lukas Moeltner
Energies 2021, 14(4), 964; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/en14040964 - 11 Feb 2021
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2465
Abstract
This study investigates geometric parameters of commercially available or recently published models of catalyst substrates for passenger vehicles and provides a numerical evaluation of their influence on heat-up behavior. Parameters considered to have a significant impact on the thermal economy of a monolith [...] Read more.
This study investigates geometric parameters of commercially available or recently published models of catalyst substrates for passenger vehicles and provides a numerical evaluation of their influence on heat-up behavior. Parameters considered to have a significant impact on the thermal economy of a monolith are: internal surface area, heat transfer coefficient, and mass of the converter, as well as its heat capacity. During simulation experiments, it could be determined that the primary role is played by the mass of the monolith and its internal surface area, while the heat transfer coefficient only has a secondary role. Furthermore, an optimization loop was implemented, whereby the internal surface area of a commonly used substrate was chosen as a reference. The lengths of the thin wall and high cell density monoliths investigated were adapted consecutively to obtain the reference internal surface area. The results obtained by this optimization process contribute to improving the heat-up performance while simultaneously reducing the valuable installation space required. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Exhaust Emissions from Passenger Cars)
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12 pages, 2347 KiB  
Article
Ammonia Emissions in SI Engines Fueled with LPG
by Andrzej Żółtowski and Wojciech Gis
Energies 2021, 14(3), 691; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/en14030691 - 29 Jan 2021
Cited by 12 | Viewed by 2233
Abstract
Ammonia is a toxic exhaust component emitted from internal combustion engines. Both pure ammonia and the products of its reaction with nitrogen and sulfur compounds, being the source of particulate matter (PM) emissions, are dangerous for human health and life. The aim of [...] Read more.
Ammonia is a toxic exhaust component emitted from internal combustion engines. Both pure ammonia and the products of its reaction with nitrogen and sulfur compounds, being the source of particulate matter (PM) emissions, are dangerous for human health and life. The aim of the article was to demonstrate that NH3 can be produced in exhaust gas after-treatment systems of spark-ignition (SI) engines used in light-duty vehicles. In some cases, NH3 occurs in high enough concentrations that can be harmful and dangerous. It would be reasonable to collect research data regarding this problem and consider the advisability of limiting these pollutant emissions in future regulations. The article presents the results of the spark-ignition engine testing on an engine test bench and discusses the impact of the air–fuel ratio regulation and some engine operating parameters on the concentration of NH3. It has been proven that in certain engine operating conditions and a combination of circumstances like the three-way catalytic reactor (TWC) temperature and periodic enrichment of the air–fuel mixture may lead to excessive NH3 emissions resulting from the NO conversion in the catalytic reactor. This is a clear disadvantage due to the lack of limitation of these pollutant emissions by the relevant type-approval regulations. This article should be a contribution to discussion among emissions researchers whether future emission regulations (e.g., Euro 7 or Euro VII) should include a provision to reduce NH3 emissions from all vehicles. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Exhaust Emissions from Passenger Cars)
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13 pages, 4349 KiB  
Article
Optimization of the Urea Injection Angle and Direction: Maximizing the Uniformity Index of a Selective Catalytic Reduction System
by Seokhoon Jeong, Hoonmyung Kim, Hyunjun Kim, Ohyun Kwon, Eunyong Park and Jeongho Kang
Energies 2021, 14(1), 157; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/en14010157 - 30 Dec 2020
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 2282
Abstract
The uniformity of ammonia is very crucial for reducing the NOX emissions in a selective catalytic reduction system since the uniformity highly affects the chemical reaction between the ammonia and NOX emission. However, increasing ammonia uniformity in a short time period [...] Read more.
The uniformity of ammonia is very crucial for reducing the NOX emissions in a selective catalytic reduction system since the uniformity highly affects the chemical reaction between the ammonia and NOX emission. However, increasing ammonia uniformity in a short time period while injecting a urea solution is not a trivial task. Therefore, in this study, the uniformity of various urea injector designs is compared and an optimal design for the urea injector angle and direction is selected. The uniformity index (UI) was calculated using numerical analysis and compared with experimental result to achieve high reliability. The boundary condition of the analysis is extracted from the dominant operating region of the non-road transient cycle (NRTC) to guarantee a realistic analysis result. The design candidates were generated from the combination of three urea injection angles and eight urea injection directions and thoroughly compared to provide an insightful analysis. The conclusion is that injecting urea in the opposite direction to the main stream of exhaust gas increases the kinetic energy and thus the uniformity is highly increased. For example, urea injection in the opposite direction and angle to the mainstream flow could increase the UI to 0.966, which is a 16.7% improvement compared to the same direction and angle injection. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Exhaust Emissions from Passenger Cars)
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15 pages, 3863 KiB  
Article
Environmental Assessment of the Vehicle Operation Process
by Małgorzata Mrozik and Agnieszka Merkisz-Guranowska
Energies 2021, 14(1), 76; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/en14010076 - 25 Dec 2020
Cited by 13 | Viewed by 2096
Abstract
The environmental safety of a car is currently one of the most important indicators of vehicle competitiveness and quality in the consumer market. Currently, assessment of the ecological properties of vehicles is based on various criteria. In the case of combustion-powered cars, most [...] Read more.
The environmental safety of a car is currently one of the most important indicators of vehicle competitiveness and quality in the consumer market. Currently, assessment of the ecological properties of vehicles is based on various criteria. In the case of combustion-powered cars, most attention is usually paid to the values characterizing their use, and in terms of environmental assessment, pollutant emissions, and operational fuel consumption are key factors. The current article considers the possibility of using the life cycle assessment (LCA) method to analyze the ecological properties of a passenger car during its operation. A simplified LCA method for vehicles, which, in strictly defined cases, can be used for the analysis of environmental impact and assessment of the energy analysis related to its operation, is presented. For this purpose, a vehicle life cycle model is developed. Data on the operation of 33 passenger cars from different manufacturers with similar operational characteristics, coming from different production periods, are analyzed in detail. The vehicle use model takes into account the environmental load due to fuel consumption and pollutant emissions from the internal combustion engine, as well as processes related to the maintenance of the car. The obtained results show that, from the point of view of a car’s impact on the environment throughout its life cycle, the phase of its operation plays the most important role. For the annual operation period, the results of the analysis lead to the conclusion that, in the assessment of energy inputs and related emissions throughout the life cycle of a passenger car, the mileage of the car, which is determined by both the periodicity of replacement of elements and materials subject to normal wear and the length of the adopted period, is of key importance. For the tested vehicles, both the energy input resulting from fuel consumption as well as CO2 and SO2 emissions constitute about 94% to 96% of the total input during the annual operation of the vehicle. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Exhaust Emissions from Passenger Cars)
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20 pages, 29436 KiB  
Article
The Impact on Emissions When an Engine Is Run on Fuel with a High Heavy Alcohol Content
by Lech J. Sitnik, Zbigniew J. Sroka and Monika Andrych-Zalewska
Energies 2021, 14(1), 41; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/en14010041 - 23 Dec 2020
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 1392
Abstract
This research reviews the impact on emissions from the engine fueled with the fuel containing a large share of bio-components, in particular with 30% n-Butanol. The research was carried out using a diesel engine. It has been shown that it is possible to [...] Read more.
This research reviews the impact on emissions from the engine fueled with the fuel containing a large share of bio-components, in particular with 30% n-Butanol. The research was carried out using a diesel engine. It has been shown that it is possible to achieve a double positive ecological effect concerning CO2 emissions. There was a decrease in CO2 emission from the engine with the fuel contained a significant share of bio-carbon. At the same time, NOx and Filter Smoke Number (FSN) emissions have been reduced together (FSN in large percentage). Usually, if NOx emissions are reduced, FSN increases, and vice versa. The paper shows also that the use of n-Butanol (bio, but nonfood) in the future is more effective than larger amounts of higher fatty acids methyl esters, although the full withdrawal of these esters seems unjustified. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Exhaust Emissions from Passenger Cars)
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15 pages, 4159 KiB  
Article
NOx Reduction in Ag/Al2O3-SiO2 Converters in the Exhaust of a Compression-Ignition Engine
by Stanisław W. Kruczyński, Piotr Orliński and Marcin Ślęzak
Energies 2021, 14(1), 20; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/en14010020 - 23 Dec 2020
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1873
Abstract
NOx emissions in compression-ignition engines can be reduced, either through the application of engine-internal methods, i.e., making sure that as little NOx as possible is produced as a result of the mixture combustion processes, or through the use of catalytic converters [...] Read more.
NOx emissions in compression-ignition engines can be reduced, either through the application of engine-internal methods, i.e., making sure that as little NOx as possible is produced as a result of the mixture combustion processes, or through the use of catalytic converters designed to reduce nitrogen oxides, including NH3-SCR or HC-SCR converters. Converters using ammonia offer high conversion rates, but they tend to be problematic in terms of their operation. For this reason, converters using hydrocarbons for the purpose of NOx reduction have been gaining in popularity. An Ag/Al2O3-SiO2 converter is an example of such a catalytic converter. This paper describes the process of preparing such a converter and characterises the porosity and acidity of its surface. The dispersion of silver was assessed based on oxygen absorption tests on crystallites of sliver and based on TEM images of crystallites of silver. The conversion of NO2, NO and propane was assessed depending on the temperature. Additionally, NO2, NO and propane conversion was assessed at 500 °C, depending on the admixture of a reducer, and propane selectivity in the process of reduction of NO to N2 was calculated. The test results indicate that the developed converter can be considered the basis for further research into the development of this compression-ignition engine exhaust after-treatment technology. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Exhaust Emissions from Passenger Cars)
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13 pages, 7375 KiB  
Article
Assessment of the Internal Catalyst Efficiency in a Diesel Engine of a Vehicle under the Conditions Simulating Real Driving
by Monika Andrych-Zalewska, Zdzisław Chłopek, Jerzy Merkisz and Jacek Pielecha
Energies 2020, 13(24), 6569; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/en13246569 - 13 Dec 2020
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1349
Abstract
The application of a catalyst on a surface inside a combustion chamber is known as a supplementary method of exhaust gas aftertreatment. The efficiency of this method in the reduction in exhaust emissions as well as its influence on other engine properties has [...] Read more.
The application of a catalyst on a surface inside a combustion chamber is known as a supplementary method of exhaust gas aftertreatment. The efficiency of this method in the reduction in exhaust emissions as well as its influence on other engine properties has been analyzed in multiple scientific works. Most often, these works present the results of investigations carried out on dynamometers under engine stationary conditions. There are no results of the catalyst investigations performed under dynamic states, particularly on-going real time analyses during engine operation. Therefore, the authors set out to explore the efficiency of the in-cylinder catalyst of a diesel engine under dynamic conditions simulating actual vehicle operation. A unique methodology was applied. The investigations were carried out in road conditions in a test simulating the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC) homologation test in compliance with the similarity criteria of the zero-dimensional characteristics of vehicle speed during the investigations and in the homologation test. For the research, the authors used portable exhaust emissions measurement equipment. A unique method of test results analysis was also applied (a continuous method in the time domain). As a result of the tests being repeated several times, it was observed that the application of an internal catalyst under different operating engine conditions repeatedly results in: an approx. 2% reduction in the emissions of carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons, and carbon dioxide; a similar increase in the emission of nitrogen oxides; and a significant (over 10%) reduction in the particle number. The obtained results substantiate the purpose of actions aiming at improving the efficiency of the internal catalyst. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Exhaust Emissions from Passenger Cars)
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13 pages, 5464 KiB  
Article
Influence of the Length of a Catalyst-Coated Glow Plug on Exhaust Emissions
by Jerzy Merkisz, Jacek Pielecha and Monika Andrych-Zalewska
Energies 2020, 13(24), 6557; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/en13246557 - 11 Dec 2020
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1737
Abstract
This paper discusses the application of an in-cylinder catalyst in reducing the exhaust emissions from a diesel engine. This is an additional method of exhaust gas aftertreatment; yet the placement of a catalyst in the combustion chamber (i.e., the closest location to the [...] Read more.
This paper discusses the application of an in-cylinder catalyst in reducing the exhaust emissions from a diesel engine. This is an additional method of exhaust gas aftertreatment; yet the placement of a catalyst in the combustion chamber (i.e., the closest location to the process of combustion) allows a reduction of the emissions ‘at source’ (the catalyst applied on the glow plugs). For the investigations, we used an engine dynamometer to reproduce the traffic conditions of a homologation test carried out on a chassis dynamometer. We carried out the investigations on a Euro 4 1.3 JTD MultiJet diesel engine. The selection of the research object was followed by an analysis of the number of engines used in the EU meeting individual emission standards. We present results (measurement of carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons, nitrogen oxides, particle number, and carbon dioxide) related to the assessment of the applicability of the in-cylinder catalyst for three types of glow plugs: standard, catalyst-covered, and a prototype plug with an elongated catalyst-covered heating part. Prototype catalytic glow plugs ensure a few percent reduction in the emission of carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons, carbon dioxide, and particle number. The use of such a solution (glow plug replacement) in most diesel engines (easy to retrofit) would improve the environmental performance of combustion engines. It is of particular importance that in-cylinder catalysts are most efficient during cold start and warm-up, which is often the case in urban driving. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Exhaust Emissions from Passenger Cars)
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21 pages, 10302 KiB  
Article
Exhaust Emissions and Energy Consumption Analysis of Conventional, Hybrid, and Electric Vehicles in Real Driving Cycles
by Jacek Pielecha, Kinga Skobiej and Karolina Kurtyka
Energies 2020, 13(23), 6423; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/en13236423 - 04 Dec 2020
Cited by 47 | Viewed by 4139
Abstract
One of the environmental aims of the European Union is to achieve climate neutrality by 2050. According to European Parliament data, transport emissions accounted for about 25% of global carbon dioxide emissions in 2016, in which road transport had the largest share (approximately [...] Read more.
One of the environmental aims of the European Union is to achieve climate neutrality by 2050. According to European Parliament data, transport emissions accounted for about 25% of global carbon dioxide emissions in 2016, in which road transport had the largest share (approximately 72%). This phenomenon is particularly visible in urban agglomerations. The solution examples are the popularization of hybrid vehicles and the development of electromobility. The aim of this paper is an assessment of the energy consumption and exhaust emissions from passenger cars fitted with different powertrains in actual operation. For the tests, passenger cars with conventional engines of various emission classes were used as well as the latest hybrid vehicles and an electric car. It enabled a comparative assessment of the energy consumption under different traffic conditions, with particular emphasis on the urban phase and the entire RDE (Real Driving Emissions) test. The results were analyzed to identify changes in these environmental factors that have occurred with the technical advancement of vehicles. The lowest total energy consumption in real traffic conditions is characteristic of an electric vehicle; the plug-in hybrid vehicle with a gasoline engine is about 10% bigger, and the largest one is a combustion vehicle (30% bigger than an electric vehicle). These data may contribute to the classification of vehicles and identification of advantages of the latest developments in conventional, hybrid, and electric vehicles. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Exhaust Emissions from Passenger Cars)
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