Physical modeling and validation of an evaporative carbon canister in gasoline fueled automobiles

Aishwarya Kakade, student pursuing a Master of Technology, Savitribai Phule Pune University (India)
Giorgio Rizzoni, faculty mentor

Background

• Hometown: Pune, India
• Degrees received: Bachelor of Engineering in mechanical engineering, Savitribai Phule Pune University, India

What is the issue or problem addresses in your research?

Evaporation of unburned hydrocarbons, among which is Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC) from the fuel tank into the atmosphere can cause harmful effects on environment and human health. Capacity of existing carbon canister to trap fuel vapors preventing them from escaping into the atmosphere is low. Considering the increasing rate of fuel evaporation and capacity of existing canister, it is a need to model a more efficient canister with better purging (purifying) strategies.

What methodology did you use in your research?

Physics based modeling with experimental validation to predict canister loading at given certain operation conditions. The fuel vapors from the fuel tank are adsorbed on the active carbon with the intent of purging (purifying) the carbon canister. Since a canister has limited adsorption capacity, it is periodically emptied by purging it with fresh air from the ambient. With the knowledge of vapor availability inside a canister, design a purging strategy to better mix fuel from the canister.

What are the purpose/rationale and implications of your research?

Adopting a better carbon canister is the most effective and economic solution to limit the release of VOCs emissions from road vehicles into the environment. Utilizing the stored vapor wisely may help reduce tailpipe exhaust emissions. A better purging strategy based on the understanding of the canister loading status may prevent canister breakthrough and reduce evaporative emissions also improves the fuel economy.