PNNL researchers find clingy copper ions contribute to catalyst slowdown

In Washington, scientists at Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, Washington State University and Tsinghua University, discovered a mechanism behind the decline in performance of an advanced copper-based catalyst. Spectroscopy revealed a deactivating force in catalysts used to reduce diesel emissions.

Heavy-duty diesel trucks on the road today are equipped with aftertreatment systems that include selective catalytic reduction (SCR) technology using urea solution as a reducing agent to curtail harmful nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions from engine exhaust before they reach the tailpipe. SCRs rely on a catalyst to help chemically convert NOx gases into nitrogen, water, and small amounts of carbon dioxide.

The team’s findings could aid the design of catalysts that work better and last longer during the nitrogen oxide conversion process known as selective catalytic reduction.