What is it about?

This article explores the feasibility of using oxy-fuel combustion in compression ignition engines with mixed ionic-electronic conducting membranes (MIECs). By using MIECs to separate oxygen from air, the oxy-fuel combustion process can eliminate nitrogen oxides (NOx) emissions and make it easier to capture carbon dioxide (CO2). Two different exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) control systems are studied: one with a variable geometry turbine (VGT) on the EGR line and the other with a VGT on the cylinder exhaust line. The results show that the oxy-fuel combustion engine can provide similar brake power and indicated efficiency to a conventional engine at high engine speeds. However, it achieves a brake power increase of more than 30% at low engine speeds. The oxy-fuel combustion engine also has the potential to eliminate the correlation between brake-specific fuel consumption (BSFC) and CO2 emissions, making it a more environmentally friendly option.

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Why is it important?

From a technological point of view, the most important aspects of this article are: - The use of mixed ionic-electronic conducting membranes (MIECs) to separate oxygen from air. MIECs are a promising technology for oxy-fuel combustion because they are efficient and durable. - The development of two different exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) control systems. These systems help to control the in-cylinder temperature and optimize the oxy-fuel combustion process. - The demonstration that oxy-fuel combustion engines can provide similar or even better performance than conventional engines. This is a significant breakthrough, as it shows that oxy-fuel combustion is a viable alternative to conventional combustion. - The potential of oxy-fuel combustion engines to eliminate the correlation between brake-specific fuel consumption (BSFC) and CO2 emissions. This would make oxy-fuel combustion engines a more environmentally friendly option. From a social point of view, the most important aspects of this article are: - The potential of oxy-fuel combustion engines to reduce nitrogen oxides (NOx) emissions by up to 90%. NOx emissions are a major contributor to air pollution and acid rain. - The potential of oxy-fuel combustion engines to capture carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions. CO2 is the primary greenhouse gas responsible for climate change. - The potential of oxy-fuel combustion engines to improve energy efficiency. Oxy-fuel combustion engines can operate at higher compression ratios than conventional engines, which can lead to improved fuel efficiency. - The potential of oxy-fuel combustion engines to reduce the cost of fuel. Oxy-fuel combustion engines can use air that is enriched with oxygen, which can lead to lower fuel consumption. Overall, the development of oxy-fuel combustion engines has the potential to make a significant contribution to addressing the environmental and energy challenges facing society today.

Perspectives

As one of the authors of this article, I am thrilled to share our findings on the feasibility of oxy-fuel combustion in compression ignition engines with mixed ionic-electronic conducting membranes (MIECs). This innovative approach holds immense promise for mitigating environmental harm and improving engine performance. The use of MIECs to separate oxygen from air is a game-changer. Not only are MIECs highly efficient and durable, but they also eliminate the need for external compressors, reducing system complexity and cost. Our study demonstrates that oxy-fuel combustion engines can provide comparable or even better performance than conventional engines, offering a compelling alternative for sustainable transportation. The development of two different exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) control systems was crucial to optimize the oxy-fuel combustion process. By carefully regulating the in-cylinder temperature, we were able to achieve stable combustion and maximize engine efficiency. Our findings suggest that the EGR system with a variable geometry turbine (VGT) on the EGR line offers greater flexibility and control, making it a promising choice for future applications. A particularly exciting result is the potential to break the correlation between brake-specific fuel consumption (BSFC) and CO2 emissions. This means that oxy-fuel combustion engines could operate at higher power levels while emitting lower amounts of CO2, a critical step towards decarbonizing the transportation sector. The successful demonstration of oxy-fuel combustion in compression ignition engines paves the way for a cleaner and more sustainable future. By combining the advantages of oxy-fuel combustion with MIEC technology, we can develop engines that are both environmentally friendly and efficient. I am confident that our work will contribute to advancements in engine technology and help us achieve the ambitious goals of reducing greenhouse gas emissions and improving air quality. The potential impact of this research is far-reaching, and I am eager to see how it will shape the future of transportation.

Dr. Francisco José Arnau Martínez
Universitat Politecnica de Valencia

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This page is a summary of: Oxy-fuel combustion feasibility of compression ignition engines using oxygen separation membranes for enabling carbon dioxide capture, Energy Conversion and Management, November 2021, Elsevier,
DOI: 10.1016/j.enconman.2021.114732.
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