NOx emission reduction through selective catalytic reduction using copper-based Y zeolite catalyst: experimental investigation and characterization

Year 2024, Volume: 13 Issue: 3, 84 - 90, 30.09.2024

Ali Cem Yakaryılmaz , Tayfun Özgür

https://doi.org/10.18245/ijaet.1453469

Abstract

Growing concerns surrounding global warming and environmental degradation have prompted the widespread adoption of various emission control methodologies, with a particular emphasis on reducing nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions. Selective catalytic reduction (SCR) stands out as a highly effective technique, applicable not only to large-scale industrial machinery but also to smaller vehicles, aimed at converting NOx emissions into less harmful nitrogen (N2) using specialized catalysts and reductants. This particular study focuses on synthesizing copper-based Y zeolite and conducting experiments using ethanol as a reductant in the exhaust stream of a two-cylinder diesel engine operating under different loads. Furthermore, the catalyst was subjected to thorough characterization using techniques such as Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), X-ray Diffraction (XRD), and Brunauer-Emmet-Teller (BET) analysis. Results indicate that as temperature and engine load increase, the efficiency of NOx conversion also improves. The highest conversion rate, reaching 94.67%, was achieved at 260°C under a 5 kW load. Additionally, average conversion rates of 90%, 90.70%, and 92.62% were observed for loads of 1 kW, 3 kW, and 5 kW, respectively. These findings not only highlight the effectiveness of SCR technology in reducing NOx emissions but also underscore the potential of copper-based Y zeolite catalysts in this regard. The comprehensive characterization of the catalyst provides valuable insights into its structural and chemical properties, paving the way for further advancements in emission control strategies.

Keywords

Selective catalytic reduction, NOx emission, Zeolite, Characterization

Project Number

FDK-2022-15479

Thanks

This study was supported by the Scientific Research Projects Unit of Cukurova University (FDK-2022-15479).

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