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NREL's research into advanced petroleum based fuels and
diesel emission controls through the DECSE (Diesel Emission Control-Sulfur Effects)
Project has proven to be instrumental in upholding the EPA's 2007 ultra-low sulfur
diesel regulations. These new regulations, which include emissions standards for
heavy duty engines, are designed to clean up urban air and reduce the health problems
caused by breathing diesel exhaust by requiring a 97% reduction in the sulfur content
of diesel fuels starting in June 2006.
Researchers in the DECSE Project have shown that by combining
ultra-low sulfur fuels and modern engines and catalysts, we can reduce NOx
and particulate matter emissions (major contributors to urban smog and human health
problems) from diesel engines by more than 90%. This research was included in reports
by DOE's DECSE Project that were cited in recent court rulings supporting the EPA's
new regulations. In a follow-on effort, researchers in the Advanced Petroleum Based
Fuels-Diesel Emission Controls (APBF-DEC) Program will continue their mission to
identify the best combinations of fuels, lubricants, diesel engines, and emission
control systems in order to meet the standards identified in the EPA regulations.
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