Simulation of continuously regenerating diesel particulate filters in transient driving cycles

Abstract

Forced by strict emission standards, interest in the reduction of particulate emissions becomes increasingly higher. Although the technology of diesel particulate filters (DPFs) has advanced impressively, especially during recent years, considerable technological challenges remain unsolved. The technology of NO₂-assisted continuously regenerating diesel filters in conjunction with the upcoming availability of low sulphur diesel fuel represents a promising solution, especially for heavy duty engines. In the present paper, a transient modelling approach for the combined catalyst and DPF system is presented. This combined model is used to predict the regeneration performance of NO₂-assisted regeneration systems in the transient conditions of a legislated European driving cycle. Although the model is based on global and approximate reaction schemes, the results illustrate the applicability of simulation tools in the process of optimizing certain important design parameters of the system, such as catalyst and particulate filter sizing and positioning, and catalyst activity requirements. It is expected that such engineering models will be valuable tools in the selection and design of such kind of systems, minimizing the testing effort and the associated costs.