Imaging technology could reduce GHG emissions

A new optical device developed at Sandia National Laboratories can quantify the formation of soot. An optical setup developed by researchers at Sandia’s Combustion Research Facility and the Technical University of Denmark identifies the particulate matter as a function of time and space for a variety of combustion processes. Researchers hope the technology will aid in meeting future particulate matter emissions mandates without sacrificing fuel savings. “Engine developers can use this information to validate computer models and design advanced engine combustion strategies that will improve fuel economy for consumers while also lowering tailpipe pollutant emissions,” said Sandia researcher Scott Skeen. The work was published in an Applied Optics paper titled, “Diffuse back-illumination setup for high temporally resolved extinction imaging.” Authors included Fredrik Westlye and Anders Ivarsson from the Technical University of Denmark and Sandia researchers Keith Penney, Lyle Pickett and Skeen and former Sandia researcher Julien Manin. The work was funded by DOE’s Vehicle Technologies Office.