Plasma regenerated particulate trap and NO{sub x} reduction system
A non-catalytic two-stage process for removal of NO{sub x} and particulates from engine exhaust comprises a first stage that plasma converts NO to NO{sub 2} in the presence of O{sub 2} and hydrocarbons, and a second stage, which preferably occurs simultaneously with the first stage, that converts NO{sub 2} and carbon soot particles to respective environmentally benign gases that include N{sub 2} and CO{sub 2}. By preconverting NO to NO{sub 2} in the first stage, the efficiency of the second stage for NO{sub x} reduction is enhanced while carbon soot from trapped particulates is simultaneously converted to CO{sub 2} when reacting with the NO{sub 2} (that converts to N{sub 2}). For example, an internal combustion engine exhaust is connected by a pipe to a chamber where carbon-containing particulates are electrostatically trapped or filtered and a non-thermal plasma converts NO to NO{sub 2} in the presence of O{sub 2} and hydrocarbons. Volatile hydrocarbons (C{sub x} H{sub y}) from the trapped particulates are oxidized in the plasma and the remaining soot from the particulates reacts with the NO{sub 2} to convert NO{sub 2} to N{sub 2}, and the soot to CO{sub 2}. The nitrogen exhaust components remain in the gas phase throughout the process, with no accompanying adsorption.
- Sponsoring Organization:
- USDOE
- OSTI ID:
- 20015731
- Resource Relation:
- Other Information: PBD: 21 Mar 2000
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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