Optimization and Performance Evaluation of Diesel Oxidation Catalysts for Methane Removal in Dual-Fuel Diesel–CNG Engines

Compressed natural gas (CNG) in dual-fuel diesel engines offers environmental benefits but significantly increases unburned methane (CH<sub>4</sub>) emissions, especially at low engine loads. This study investigates the effectiveness of different catalytic converters in methane oxidation...

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Main Authors: Piotr Wiśniowski, Magdalena Zimakowska-Laskowska, Paweł Mazuruk, Sławomir Taubert, Michał Stankiewicz
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: MDPI AG 2025-04-01
Series:Energies
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Online Access:https://www.mdpi.com/1996-1073/18/8/1985
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Summary:Compressed natural gas (CNG) in dual-fuel diesel engines offers environmental benefits but significantly increases unburned methane (CH<sub>4</sub>) emissions, especially at low engine loads. This study investigates the effectiveness of different catalytic converters in methane oxidation under transient test conditions (WHTC). Three types of catalysts (Pt-, Rh-, and Pd-based) were evaluated using a combined approach of empirical engine bench tests and mathematical modelling. The results showed that, under actual exhaust gas temperature conditions, the average methane conversion efficiencies were 3.7% for Pt, 17.7% for Rh, and 31.3% for Pd catalysts. Increasing the exhaust gas temperature by 50% improved the conversion efficiencies to 7.3%, 51.8%, and 69.2%, respectively. Despite this enhancement, none of the catalysts reached the 90% efficiency threshold required to increase the CNG content of the fuel beyond 6% without exceeding emission limits. The results highlight the need for high-activity Pd-based catalysts and optimised thermal management strategies to enable the broader adoption of dual-fuel engines, while complying with Euro VI standards.
ISSN:1996-1073