The Characterization of Diesel Exhaust Particle Matter and its Atmospheric Lifecycle: The Size, Shape and Composition of Soot Particles in the Atmosphere
EMSL Project ID
25637
Abstract
Elemental carbon or soot particles, the majority of which are emitted by diesel engines, significantly impact the Global Climate. Most atmospheric particles impact is to cool the planet by scattering solar radiation to space, soot, however, absorb solar radiation enhancing the effect green house gases. It is estimated that approximately a quarter of the change in global temperatures can be attributed to soot. Soot particles are emitted as small particles with complex fractal structures. They are typically coated with organics like lubricant oil, partially burned fuel and polyaromatic hydrocarbons. How much soot is emitted, how much coating and what compounds are present - are all dependent on engine operating conditions, fuel type and how the exhaust emissions being treated. Because of their small size soot particles are difficult to detect and characterize in detail. Recent changes in EPA regulations had cut PM emissions to the point that standard instrumentation cannot be used to measure PM load. To properly represent these particles in climate model we need to know their emission inventories and the transformations they undergo in the atmosphere. Dr. Zelenyuk has been able to develop a single particle mass spectrometer (SPLAT) that can measure with unparalleled capabilities. SPLAT has been proven to measure with great precision and accuracy the size, composition and fractal dimension of soot particles down to 50 nm. Here we propose to take advantage of these unique capabilities to characterize the properties of exhaust emissions with and without aftertreatment as a function of engine operating conditions and fuel type. We will also use laboratory generated soot to study the atmospheric life cycle of soot particles.
Project Details
Project type
Large-Scale EMSL Research
Start Date
2007-07-13
End Date
2008-07-13
Status
Closed
Released Data Link
Team
Principal Investigator
Team Members
Related Publications
Yang, J., Stewart, M., Maupin, G., Herling, D. and Zelenyuk, A. (2008). Single Wall Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) Filtration Efficiency Studies Using Laboratory Generated Particles Chemical Engineering Science, doi:10.1016/j.ces.2008.12.011
Zelenyuk A, J Yang, DG Imre, and EY Choi. 2009. "Achieving Size Independent Hit-Rate in Single Particle Mass Spectrometry." Aerosol Science and Technology 43(4):305-310.