Diesel engine research and development status and needs

The research and development status of the automotive diesel engine/vehicle sector is summarized, and specific basic and applied research and development needs in the diesel technology and health effects areas where active participation by the government would be desirable are identified. The report is divided into seven Sections, plus an Executive Summary. Sec. 1, entitled Introduction, provides a brief discussion of the study objectives, scope, and approach. Sec. 2, Diesel Engine Characteristics, examines the fuel economy and exhaust emissions trends of diesel engines, with particular emphasis on light duty engine/vehicle configurations, and currently unregulated species. Sec. 3, Diesel Engine Emission Control Technology, describes emission control techniques, devices, and systems which have been or still are being considered by many investigators in industry, governmental agencies, and research organizations. Sec. 4, Diesel Engine Programs Conducted by Government Agencies, highlights major programs conducted or planned by the EPA, DOT, U.S. Army, and DOE in the areas of diesel engine technology and health effects. Sec. 5, Diesel Engine Programs Conducted by Industry, and Sec. 6, Diesel Engine Programs Conducted by Other Organizations, discuss diesel exhaust emissions characterization, health effects, and technology programs performed by a selected group of organizations. Finally, Sec. 7 identifies specificmore » program areas in which aggressive government participation would be desirable to develop the information required for comprehensive assessments of the near-term and far-term emissions and fuel economy potentials of divided chamber and open chamber diesel engines.« less