Reduction of Ground Vehicle Observables Through Carbon Foam-Based Exhaust Treatment

This project addresses the topic of Reduction of Ground Vehicle Observables. The use of carbon foam to reduce engine-related observables will be investigated. Carbon foam offers high specific thermal conductivity while providing better structural properties at elevated temperatures than traditional heat exchanger materials. Carbon foams also resist chemical and environmental corrosion without the need for additional coatings or treatments, making them well suited to abusive environments. Because of the foam's open-celled structure CFOAMr also has the potential to act as a filter for particulate matter. This study will address the reduction of three observables: heat, noise and particulate matter and the impact on cost, weight and performance. The Phase I effort will review design options and analyze their impact on observables, vehicle functionality and performance. Phase II work will construct a prototype to demonstrate the reduction of observables and will address future technological hurdles.