Half-size catalytic converter wins funding

Researchers at Imperial College and Ricardo UK have been awarded £85,000 funding by the Royal Academy of Engineering

Road to efficiency: The converter saves on fuel or extends engine power

A half-size catalytic converter being developed by researchers at Imperial College London alongside Ricardo UK has been selected by the Royal Academy of Engineering to receive funding of up to £85,000 and mentoring support.

Dr Benjamin Kingsbury, research associate at Imperial College London’s department of chemical engineering, has advanced the existing manufacturing process of catalytic converters to improve the structure of the ceramic block’s microscopic channels (right). This process increases the surface area, enabling the rare metal in the device to be distributed more effectively so that less is used. The increased surface area also makes the catalytic converter’s chemical reaction process more efficient.

Kingsbury’s advance prevents a build-up of gases that can make the engine work harder, affecting its performance. Therefore the structure can achieve a 2-3% fuel saving, or offer high-performance cars an equivalent increase in engine power.

Ricardo will act as mentor for the technology as it moves towards commercialisation.

Kingsbury said: “Demonstrating long-term durability is the next challenge, which will take place over the next 12-18 months.

“The technology has not changed much in about 40 years, and it will be difficult to get the automotive sector to accept there is new technology out there,” he added.

Other technologies recognised by the academy’s Enterprise Fellowship scheme include smart clothing to help protect the elderly from hip fractures; research tools for scientists in cancer research and quantum computer development; and instrumentation for next-generation energy systems.

Arnoud Jullens, head of enterprise at the academy, said: “Business-minded academics need investment and support from experienced industry practitioners to exploit their research.”