NOx emission reduction through selective catalytic reduction using copper-based Y zeolite catalyst: experimental investigation and characterization

Growing concerns surrounding global warming and environmental degradation have prompted the widespread adoption of various emission control methodologies, with a particular emphasis on reducing nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions. Selective catalytic reduction (SCR) stands out as a highly effective technique, applicable not only to large-scale industrial machinery but also to smaller vehicles, aimed at converting NOx emissions into less harmful nitrogen (N2) using specialized catalysts and reductants. This particular study focuses on synthesizing copper-based Y zeolite and conducting experiments using ethanol as a reductant in the exhaust stream of a two-cylinder diesel engine operating under different loads. Furthermore, the catalyst was subjected to thorough characterization using techniques such as Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), X-ray Diffraction (XRD), and Brunauer-Emmet-Teller (BET) analysis. Results indicate that as temperature and engine load increase, the efficiency of NOx conversion also improves. The highest conversion rate, reaching 94.67%, was achieved at 260°C under a 5 kW load. Additionally, average conversion rates of 90%, 90.70%, and 92.62% were observed for loads of 1 kW, 3 kW, and 5 kW, respectively. These findings not only highlight the effectiveness of SCR technology in reducing NOx emissions but also underscore the potential of copper-based Y zeolite catalysts in this regard. The comprehensive characterization of the catalyst provides valuable insights into its structural and chemical properties, paving the way for further advancements in emission control strategies.