Onboard Implementation of an Ultra-Compact Hydrogen-Generator for Efficiency and Emissions Benefits in IC Engines

Substantially improve fuel efficiency and emissions in automotive gasoline engines by providing an innovation that will enable these advances by engine and vehicle manufacturers. A 5%netimprovement in fuel economy would imply savings of about 7 billion gallons of gasoline per year. Precision Combustion, Inc. has innovated a unique new onboard hydrogen generator that could be used in new vehicles and retrofitted to existing engines to enable more efficient and clean engine operation supporting key combustion improvement strategies being pursued by the Vehicle Technologies Office. An ultra-compact and high efficiency gasoline reforming reactor was developed, and integrated into and tested with multiple engines. Testing confirmed Net Fuel Consumption improvement, stable engine operation at extended lean limit for further fuel economy gains, component durability, and significantly reduced emissions of oxides of nitrogen, hydrocarbons and carbon monoxide. Precision Combustion, Inc. will transition the technology to OEM use by provide prototypes and supporting OEM internal testing and trial of the new component, as well as mature and enhance the component design and develop supporting materials for commercialization. The project will produce a commercial device that will support engine OEM new product development objectives and lead to adoption by engine OEMs and Tier 1 suppliers. Commercial Applications and Other Benefits: The proposed effort will result in the development of a practical, cost-effective and efficient system that could be readily integrated into modern engines for improved efficiency gasoline combustion, helping to enable achievement of very high mpg targets. Success in introducing the system into commercial automotive engines would provide a strong market entry that competitive forces will spread throughthe industry. Parallel non-SBIR funding from a Tier 1 supplier and others to expand on the Phase IIB effort highlights interest, reduces implementation risk and provides credibility of the approach.