Consortium Studies Contaminants' Effects on Diesel, Gasoline Emissions

Compiled ByDeborah Austin Southwest Research Institute (SwRI) is launching a research consortium to investigate potential degradation or poisoning of gasoline and diesel engines' emissions control systems by common lubricating oils. SwRI, San Antonio, Texas -- an independent, nonprofit research-and-development organization with more than $315 million in annual research volume -- seeks members for the consortium, titled "Diesel Aftertreatment Sensitivity to Lubricants (DASL), Non-Thermal Catalyst Deactivation (N-TCD)." The consortium combines two previously separate consortia ideas. The consortium's work is intended as precompetitive and complementary to other programs, rather than duplicating others' work. Historically, engine and fuel improvements -- plus introduction of aftertreatment systems -- sufficed to meet changing emissions regulations, say the consortium's organizers. But with future emissions standards -- and requirements for aftertreatment systems' durability and control systems' efficiency -- anything affecting aftertreatment performance must be addressed. Twelve to 15 companies are expected to join in the first year, at a cost of $85,000 per member. For more information, contact Bruce Bykowski, assistant director, Emissions Research Department, SwRI, at 210/522-2937.