The Effect of Ash Accumulation on Gasoline Particulate Filters: A Comparison Between Laboratory and Field Aged Samples

Abstract

Stringent regulations worldwide will limit the level of particulate matter (PM) and particle number (PN) emitted from gasoline engines. Gasoline particulate filters (GPFs) present one strategy for meeting PM and PN limits over the full operating range of the engine. Over time these filters accumulate incombustible ash, increasing system pressure drop and adversely effecting engine performance. The effect of aging as a result of ash accumulation is examined over the full lifetime of gasoline particulate filters, using a novel accelerated aging system. This system utilizes a gasoline combustion chamber into which lubricating oil is injected simulating combustion in the cylinder — the primary source of ash. This report details the construction and validation of this system.