Study Points to Lower-Sulfur Fuel, Particulate Filters

February 16, 2000 9:54 AM, EST

A combination of low-sulfur fuel and a diesel particulate filter is effective in reducing particulate matter in emissions by as much as 95%, according to a joint government-private study.

The research also indicated that the filters are not effective with today’s fuel. When working with the level of sulfur found in current diesel fuels, the filters may actually produce more particulates, the researchers said.

This is of particular interest to U.S. engine manufacturers that are facing stiffer emission reduction requirements from the federal Environmental Protection Agency. The companies want the government to look into lowering the sulfur level in diesel fuel as part of their efforts to meet the proposed new standards.

The study, released Jan. 26, was carried out as part of the Diesel Emission Control — Sulfur Effects program, a cooperative research effort begun in September 1998. It was sponsored by the Department of Energy’s Office of Heavy Vehicle Technologies, through the National Renewable Energy and Oak Ridge National laboratories. Sharing in the funding were two industry groups: the Engine Manufacturers Association and the Manufacturers of Emissions Controls Association.

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