Diesel particulate filters currently represent the most efficient technology to reduce particulate matter (PM) from exhaust gas. The PM is trapped within a wall flow filter. Several ways of regeneration are possible to avoid too high backpressures or even filter blocking. To reduce particulate matter ignition temperature and increase PM oxidation rate during regeneration fuel additive supported systems or catalysed particulate filters can be used. Both require additional non-continuous regeneration, whereas continuous regeneration can be achieved if the particulate matter can be oxidised with NO2 instead of predominantly with O2.
Both, continuous as well as non-continuous regeneration require extensive system application and engine calibration work to ensure reliable and durable system behaviour at different ambient conditions and over long vehicle driving distances. AVL is very experienced in such developments, for example development of detailed particulate matter loading models. Beside reliability and durability, minimal fuel consumption increase and excellent vehicle driveability are the major development targets.