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

Abstract

Compressed natural gas (CNG) in dual-fuel diesel engines offers environmental benefits but significantly increases unburned methane (CH4) 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.

Keywords

• catalytic converter
• CNG
• emissions
• dual-fuel engines
• methane emissions
• exhaust gas aftertreatment