Characterization of diesel particulate material (PM)

Diesel engine manufacturers are concerned about their ability to meet 1994 and 1998 emission regulations. A major factor is their ability to meet both the gaseous emissions regulations and the particulate levels with current technology. The key is in reducing the particulates in a practical way, preferably without exhaust add-on devices. This requires new technology or new approaches to using the current technology. This presentation looks at some of the options in reducing the amount of particulate by the reducing the fraction contributed by the lubricant. The research describes the use of a simultaneous thermal gravimetric - differential thermal analysis (TGA-DTA) method of characterizing diesel particulate. Preliminary studies of the role of the lubricant in the formation of particulates are discussed and a research plan proposed. Electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) was used to show the presence of free electrons on the carbon surface that interact with polar or oxidized organic material. The need for cooperative studies in this area is suggested.