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Fuels Research
Fuel formulation is especially important for new engines that will operate in low-temperature combustion (LTC) regimes because chemical-kinetic processes that are strongly dependent on fuel type largely control the limiting processes of ignition and heat release rate. LTC modes such as homogeneous charge compression ignition (HCCI) are of considerable interest because they can simultaneously reduce NOx and soot emissions by two orders of magnitude while maintaining high thermal efficiency. Currently, however, LTC can be achieved only over a limited portion of an engine's typical operating range. Our research is focused on developing a fundamental understanding of the combustion characteristics of advanced liquid petroleum-based, bio-derived, and synthetic fuels, and applying this knowledge to:
Advanced laser and imaging diagnostic techniques are used to observe combustion and emissions-formation processes through windows in the piston and the upper periphery of the cylinder liner. Detailed analysis of the in-cylinder measurements, coupled with engine-out emissions data, help expand the understanding of exactly how and why pollutants are formed so that they can be minimized. The fuels research project facilitates efficient and rapid progress toward the commercialization of optimal fuel and engine technologies through publication of research results in the open literature and through close collaborations with engine manufacturers, energy companies, other government laboratories, and academia. |