Photograph of the ESBEC system
Invention Summary:
Diesel combustion engines are widely used in heavy-duty trucks, stationary engines and for power generation. With the advent of common rail injection systems and many performance-enhancing modifications, modern diesel engines have decreased their emissions, but still emit relatively high concentrations of particulate matter within a wide range of particle sizes. To meet the emission regulations, several diesel particulate filters (DPF) have been developed and implemented earlier as viable devices to minimize diesel soot emission. However, the current DPFs are not very effective for capturing ultrafine (< 100 nm) particles which have been linked with increased morbidity and mortality.
Rutgers scientists have designed an Electrostatic Screen Battery for Emission Control (ESBEC) device for capturing airborne particulate matter emissions from a variety of mobile and stationary sources, such as diesel engines used in automobiles, marine engines, agricultural equipment, power generation equipment, etc. The ESBEC collects and allows for subsequent removal of collected airborne particulate matter using a wire mesh screen coated with superhydrophobic material and supplied with high voltage. The superhydrophobic coating on the screen surface enables easy removal of the collected particles using liquid medium and helps in regeneration of the screens for continued use. The ESBEC system comprises a screen battery containing multiple screens to remove up to 99% of the particles, including those in nano-size range.
Advantages:
- Less expensive device.
- The unique liquid-based recovery and regeneration system provide biproducts for other industrial applications (such as tire, rubber, paints, etc.).
- Ensures smooth operation when employed downstream of systems that are maintaining a low back pressure.
- Eliminates nano-sized particle pollution smooth operation when employed downstream of systems that are maintaining a low back pressure.
Market Application:
Exhaust emission control.
Intellectual Property & Development Status:
Patent pending. Available for licensing and/or research collaborations.
