Grantee Research Project Results

UV-LED Photocatalytic Fuel Vapor Emissions Control

EPA Grant Number: SV840016
Title: UV-LED Photocatalytic Fuel Vapor Emissions Control
Investigators: Almquist, Catherine
Institution: Miami University
EPA Project Officer: Aja, Hayley
Phase: II
Project Period: July 1, 2020 through June 30, 2022 (Extended to September 30, 2023)
Project Amount: $74,663
RFA: P3 Awards: A National Student Design Competition for Sustainability Focusing on People, Prosperity and the Planet - Phase 2 (2020) Recipients Lists
Research Category: P3 Awards

Objective:

Researcherspropose to reduce/eliminate evaporative fuel vapor emissions from automobiles using a novel UV-LED photocatalytic process. The photocatalytic process will utilize battery-powered ultraviolet (λ=365 nm) light emitting diodes (UV-LEDs) as light sources and photocatalytic (TiO₂) films coated on the inside surfaces of the vent lines in the onboard fuel vapor recovery system in automobiles. UV-LEDs are small, robust light sources that require low direct current (DC) power, which could be provided by the battery already contained within the automobile. UV-LEDs are ideal for niche mobile applications, such as in photocatalytic processes within automobiles!

Approach:

The approach that will be taken includes the following:

Construct a cylindrical UV LED photocatalytic fuel vapor emissions control device that is 3 cm diameter by 10 cm in length, which is a size and shape that can be fit into the current ORVR system in an automobile.
Demonstrate a photocatalytic film that is durable to abrasion and vibrations, diurnal temperature swings, and when exposed to water.
Assess the limits of performance of this technology for the following experimental variables:
- Space between the UV LEDs and the photocatalytic film
- Mass, illuminated surface area, and type of photocatalytic film
- Residence time, concentration and type of VOC
- Humidity
- UV LED intensity and wavelength
- Longevity of service life
Demonstrate the operation of the prototype in standard test systems using federal standard methods for fuel vapor emissions control.
Conduct an economic analysis for the proposed technology to assess economic attractiveness from multiple perspectives (auto manufacturers, consumer, human health, regulations)
Design and develop educational and marketing tools for this technology.

An interdisciplinary team of students will work on the various aspects of this project. A team leader will be selected by the PI to work closely with the PI to manage, lead and organize the team of students.

Expected Results:

Anticipated results include the design, construction, and demonstration of a prototype UV-LED-based photocatalytic system that is capable of reducing or eliminating evaporative fuel vapor emissions from automobiles. Test results will be acquired to demonstrate the sensitivity of the effectiveness of the UV-LED-based photocatalytic system on operating parameters. Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations of the fuel vapor flow and concentrations within the UV-LED-based photocatalytic oxidation system will be developed as a tool for process optimization. The economic attractiveness of the device will be assessed as a pollution control device on an automobile. Marketing and educational brochures will be developed for both corporate and public information pertaining to the project.

Publications and Presentations:

Publications have been submitted on this project: View all 10 publications for this project

Journal Articles:

Journal Articles have been submitted on this project: View all 3 journal articles for this project

Supplemental Keywords:

UV LEDs, photocatalysis, evaporative fuel vapor emissions

Progress and Final Reports:

P3 Phase I:

UV-LED Photocatalytic Fuel Vapor Emissions Control | Final Report

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The perspectives, information and conclusions conveyed in research project abstracts, progress reports, final reports, journal abstracts and journal publications convey the viewpoints of the principal investigator and may not represent the views and policies of ORD and EPA. Conclusions drawn by the principal investigators have not been reviewed by the Agency.