Low-Temperature Catalyst potential? 1

[Turbinator]

A big obstacle for increased performance in IC engines is the need for the exhaust temperature to be high enough for the catalytic converter to operate. Because of this, we have California emmissions-compliant cars with 8.X:1 compression ratios, and the near extinction of turbocharged gasoline powered vehicles.

I read about low-temperature catalysts a while ago. Does anyone here have more information about the developement for automotive use?

This page gives a description of its use in a NASA CO2 laser-

http://www.nasatech.com/Spinoff/spinoff1999/er2.htm

 

[Turbinator]

I should add my comments apply to US vehicles, so it is understood where I am coming from.

 

[franzh]

The only info I have is that the cost of the catalyst goes up exponentially when the heat requirement is lowered. It is easier to make an affordable catalyst when heat is involved. There is a "sweet spot" in the balance between price per unit, efficiency, and temperature. As for turbocharged vehicles going away, not in my radar screen.
Franz

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[NickE]

turbinator- So this resurgence in small efficient turbocharged vehicles is only ment for the other 49 states. Now that the subaru impreza WRX has established that small displacemnt turbocharged cars with highly intelligent ECU's and coolant and oil cooled turbos are a viable and highly driveable vehicle. And the automakers are beginning to produce more (Saab turbos coming back, the volvos, VW (1.8t), ford focus rs (rumor), Mazda). I find it unlikely that the automakers are going to only market to the 49states. Other states will soon follow CA's lead and reduce allowed emmisions further.

Oh who is making a 8.0:1 compression non-turbo vehicle?

nick