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Simultaneous NOx and hydrocarbon emissions control for lean-burn engines using low-temperature solid oxide fuel cell
Ta-Jen Huang1, Sheng-Hsiang Hsu, Chung-Ying Wu
1Department of Chemical Engineering, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu 30013, Taiwan, ROC. tjhuang@che.nthu.edu.tw
Environmental Science & Technology
|February 1, 2012
Summary
Lean-burn engines produce high nitrogen oxides (NOx) and hydrocarbons (HCs). A low-temperature solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) effectively reduces NOx and oxidizes HCs simultaneously without fuel consumption.
Area of Science:
- Catalysis
- Environmental Science
- Electrochemistry
Background:
- Lean-burn engines achieve high fuel efficiency but generate significant nitrogen oxides (NOx) due to high combustion temperatures and excess oxygen.
- High NOx emissions contribute to air pollution and environmental concerns, necessitating effective treatment strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the potential of a low-temperature solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) for simultaneous reduction of high-concentration NOx and oxidation of hydrocarbons (HCs) in simulated engine exhaust.
- To evaluate the performance of a specifically constructed SOFC under varying NOx and oxygen concentrations.
Main Methods:
- An SOFC was constructed using Ni-YSZ anode, YSZ electrolyte, and La(0.6)Sr(0.4)CoO(3) (LSC)-Ce(0.9)Gd(0.1)O(1.95) cathode, with optional vanadium addition.
- The SOFC was operated at 450 °C under open circuit conditions to treat simulated exhaust gases containing high concentrations of NOx and HCs.
Main Results:
- The SOFC effectively treated high concentrations of NOx (up to 5000 ppm) to nitrogen (N2) at 450 °C, with higher NOx and oxygen concentrations enhancing the conversion rate.
- Simultaneous oxidation of HCs was achieved, particularly when silver was added to the LSC current collecting layer.
- The SOFC system operated without consuming anode fuel, functioning effectively near engine exhaust temperatures.
Conclusions:
- A low-temperature SOFC is a viable technology for simultaneous NOx reduction and HC oxidation in engine exhaust.
- The SOFC system offers an efficient, fuel-less emissions control solution that operates at engine exhaust temperatures, reducing operational complexity and costs.
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