An Innovative Method of NOX Reduction Through Fuel Additives for the UEET Program

The opportunity addressed in this proposal is to transfer a fuel-additive technology developed for NOx and particulate matter reduction in diesel fuels, to applications in ultra-efficient jet engine fuels, with no reduction in performance and power output of the engine. The innovation is based on a novel fuel additive, PuriNOx(TM), developed by Lubrizol Corporation. Unlike conventional fuel additives that reduce combustion efficiency and performance, this new chemical will lower the flame temperature to reduce NOx and particulate matter production, with no penalty to efficiency or performance. Transfer of this technology by the SEA, Inc./Kettering University team will have significant positive impact on national air quality concerns of commercial and military aircraft. During the Phase I program, our team will analytically quantify the impact of the fuel additive on NOx reduction for jet fuels and overall engine performance (specific impulse, thrust/weight, combustion efficiency). In addition, some limited, simple testing of the fuel additive will be performed. In the Phase II effort, full scale testing at NASA/GRC facilities is anticipated, and the results shared with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), jet engine manufacturers and commercial airlines.