Applying 3D X-ray Microscopy to Model Coated Gasoline Particulate Filters under Practical Driving Conditions

Area of Science:

• Automotive Engineering
• Materials Science
• Chemical Engineering

Background:

• Advanced 3D X-ray microscopy enables detailed pore-scale analysis of coated gasoline particulate filters (GPFs).
• Existing complex 3D models are unsuitable for simulating GPFs under transient automotive driving conditions.
• Accurate modeling of GPFs is crucial for effective automotive aftertreatment systems.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a macroscopic model for coated GPFs applicable to transient driving cycles.
• To integrate quantitative analysis from 3D X-ray microscopy into a filtration model.
• To validate the macroscopic model using engine test bench measurements.

Main Methods:

• Utilized high-resolution 3D X-ray microscopy scans for quantitative analysis of coated GPFs.
• Employed a previously developed 1D + 1D flow model on the filter's channel scale.
• Validated the model with pressure drop and filtration characteristic measurements from a dynamic engine test bench.

Main Results:

• The macroscopic model, using properties derived from 3D X-ray microscopy, successfully replicated experimental measurements.
• Filter coating was found to reduce porosity and decrease medium-sized pores.
• Reduced porosity and pore size changes negatively impacted filtration efficiency in both steady-state and transient conditions.

Conclusions:

• A novel macroscopic model effectively simulates coated GPFs under driving conditions using 3D X-ray microscopy data.
• The study quantifies the impact of filter coating characteristics on filtration performance.
• Findings provide insights for optimizing GPF design and performance in automotive aftertreatment systems.