Filtration System for Reducing CO2 Concentration from Combustion Gases of Used Spark Ignition Engines

This research paper proposes a solution to reduce CO2 emissions from a spark ignition engine’s exhaust gases by installing a filtration system on the vehicle’s exhaust pipe. The analyzed filtration system was not patented and was in the testing stage. Tests will also be carried out on the stand. The tested system can be used to reduce CO2 levels in automotive exhaust gases and for static applications (generators, internal combustion engine test stands, fossil fuel power generation systems). The need for a system to reduce pollutant emissions emerged with the average age in Europe. In proper conditions, some vehicles can use this type of filtration system. The tested vehicle is a vehicle (produced in 2009) equipped with a 75HP Spark Ignition Engine. The CO2 filtration system consists of a container containing a reactive aqueous solution comprising water, CaO, and MgO. Four tests were performed: the first without a filter, and the other three with the filter placed at different distances from the exhaust pipe end to the reactive solution surface. The tests consisted of evaluating the exhaust gases from the cold start of the engine and running (idle engine speed) until the engine reached the optimal operating temperature. The test procedure involved saving the data collected by the analyzer every 10 s for each of the four tests performed (the duration of a test was 1050 s). The first test (No. 1) was performed without the use of the filtering system. Tests 2, 3, and 4 were carried out using the filtering system and changing the distance between the exhaust gases’ outlet point and the surface of the aqueous substance. All tests were carried out under similar conditions. Data specific to the test of engines were collected—emissions (CO2, CO, NOx), ambient temperature, and exhaust temperature. The tests were analyzed and compared, and the highest CO2 reductions without increases in CO or NOx were observed in Tests 3 and 4. Based on the detailed analysis of the values obtained from the four tests, the system was efficient. The tests will continue on experimental engines from test stands, to develop a prototype filter for primarily static applications with internal combustion engines: test stands for engines and generators, and, after homologation, directly on vehicles. The paper aims to partially solve an important problem—reducing the level of CO2 from the exhaust gases. The presented solution may have applicability in the automotive industry but is also feasible for static applications. Another objective is to reduce emissions from older vehicles, which are widespread in certain regions of Europe and worldwide.