Expected Simpler (Less Expensive) Diesel Emissions Reduction Systems Are Coming For SCR

Implications: The Selective Catalyst Reduction (SCR) versus Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) approaches have already been previously written about - including from me last week. The referenced article shows us one coming approach that may replace the need for urea (ammonia) in SCR applications. More SCR options are under development. What it also shows is what many of us have been already saying - that SCR-type approaches is where all will most probably end up.

Analysis: We know that the currently-planned approaches to meet 2010 US diesel emissions would be improved upon - and there is considerable work underway in bettering diesel exhaust catalysts. US Department of Energy’s (DOE) Argonne National Laboratory scientists have developed and patented a catalyst that reportedly can reliably and economically reduce NOx emissions between 95 and 100%.

The technology has been licensed to Integrated Fuel Technologies, Inc, a start-up company based in Kirkland & Spokane, Washington. The in-line SCR deNOx system uses onboard diesel fuel as the reducing agent, instead of urea or ammonia as used in current SCR systems.

"OEMs like Paccar, Cummins, Siemens, BASF, Corning and John Deere have expressed an interest in IFT products enhanced with the Diesel DeNOx Catalyst," said IFT President Robert Firebaugh. "These companies want to know if the technology can survive continuous testing."

What this means is that there will be several years of durability / emission reduction testing coming before any release of any such product commercially. It also means that one will be able to retrofit older engines to meet current regulations, such as needed to operate in certain areas of California (and other places). It also would allow for engines sold and equipped with SCR systems for 2010 to be updated with a lower-cost system at some point in the future (servicing, etc.).