BASF introduces its innovative FWC™ four-way conversion catalyst for gasoline engines at the International Vienna Motor Symposium, being held April 25-26, 2013, in Vienna, Austria.
The single-component FWC technology can remove PM (Particulate Matter), as well as CO (Carbon Monoxide), HC (Hydrocarbons) and NOx (Nitrogen Oxides) from gasoline-engine exhaust, helping automakers meet strict new emissions regulations including Euro 6.
The FWC will be showcased in a presentation led by Dr. Klaus Harth, BASF’s Vice President, Mobile Emissions Catalysts Research, which will take place at 9:30 am on April 26 at the Congress Center Hofburg in Vienna.
“We have successfully applied our knowledge and expertise in materials science, catalysis and processing to the development of this high-performing new technology,” said Harth. “The FWC is a unique solution which combines the functionality of a three-way conversion catalyst (TWC) with a filter on a single honeycomb.”
The traditional TWC used with gasoline-engines removes CO, HC and NOx. In order to remove PM, a separate Gasoline Particulate Filter can be added, however this can increase back pressure and requires additional space. The FWC addresses this challenge, creating a single-component technology solution.
“Close collaboration between catalyst developers, substrate suppliers and automotive OEMs will be required to bring the full potential of the FWC to market,” said Xavier Susterac, BASF’s Vice President, Mobile Emissions Catalysts Europe. “BASF will continue to drive this process, leveraging our industry-leading innovation capabilities and our proven emissions control and catalysis manufacturing expertise to help move the industry forward.”
In addition to tightening long-established emissions restrictions for HC, CO and NOx emissions, upcoming Euro 6 regulations will introduce new controls for particulate matter emissions from gasoline-engine-powered vehicles. The European Commission has decided to implement such new standards in two phases. Phase 1 will begin in 2014, with an initial particulate limit of 6×1012/km, followed by phase 2 (Euro 6c) with a more stringent standard of 6×1011/km in 2017. In addition, Real-Driving Emissions (RDE) requirements will be considered from 2017 onward. In the United States, future U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Tier 3 regulations will also require more stringent particulate emissions reductions.
BASF’s emissions control solutions include SCRoF™ (Selective Catalytic Reduction on Filter) for diesel engines, and PremAir® direct ozone reduction catalysts, which can be applied on automotive radiators. These emissions abatement products are manufactured at the company’s Nienburg, Germany, catalyst production facility, and will also be produced in a new BASF production site in Środa Śląska, Poland, which is slated to begin manufacturing operations in the first quarter of 2014.
Beyond emissions catalysts, BASF will showcase its fuel additives, axle and transmission lubricants, engineering plastics and battery materials at the 2013 Vienna Motor Symposium.
BASF’s Keropur® fuel additives help keep engines clean and protect the entire fuel system. The portfolio comprises gasoline and diesel performance packages for effective engine cleanliness, improved fuel economy, corresponding lower emissions and a better driving experience. Emgard® axle and transmission synthetic lubricants provide extended drain intervals and improved wear protection and shifting comfort.
BASF markets its polyamide compounds and engineering plastics under the trade name Ultramid®. Thanks to their excellent performance properties, they have become indispensable for numerous applications in which high mechanical strength, stiffness and thermal resistance are vital, such as automotive applications, electrics and electronics, sports and leisure or furniture.
BASF’s battery materials support the production of advanced lithium-ion batteries that will propel current and next-generation hybrid and full electric vehicles, helping drive the future of electromobility. The company’s portfolio includes cathode materials as well as electrolytes.
