FrançaisChemical Analysis Laboratory
LMM is a member of the Energy Institute working group (www.energyinst.org.uk) whose aims are the standardisation of methodologies for non-regulated pollutant analyses.
LMM is also a member of the French group studying non-regulated emissions; whose members are PSA, Renault, IFP end UTAC. Work is correlated between the members on a regular basis.
Capabilities
Our testing and analysis facilities are constantly being updated. We integrate all the latest appropriate techniques into our research centre.
Being heavily involved in pollution reduction; our recent investments in chemical research are highly significant.
Equipment
The main purpose of the LMM laboratory is to measure non-regulated pollutants (mainly Aldehydes, Ketones, and Hydrocarbons), and to analyse particulates, using:
- One soft ionisation mass spectrometer for simultaneous measurement of ten different pollutants with a response time no longer than 10ms and with a low detection level
- Two gaseous chromatographs
- One high performance liquid chromatograph
- One ionic chromatograph
- One particulate extractor (Soxhlet).
Expertise
Diesel Particulate Characterisation :
-
Determination of the Soluble Organic Fraction (SOF) using solvent extraction together with differential weighing,
-
Quantification of the fuel and lubricating oil adsorbed on particulates, by gas chromatography,
-
Sulphate and Nitrate analysis from SOF by ionic chromatography.
Gaseous Pollutants form Vehicles :
-
Calculation of emitted Aldehydes and Ketones with High Performance Liquid chromatography.
-
Hydrocarbon (HC) speciation using gas chromatography coupled to a fully original sampling device directly connected to the vehicle test bed. Both standard and custom driving cycles are allowable.
Diesel Fuel Oil Dilution
-
Calculation of fuel dilution rate in crankcase lubricant by gas chromatography.
Correlation of Engine Driving Parameters with Regulated and/or Non-unregulated emissions
- Using mass spectrometry, up to ten different pollutant concentrations can simultaneously be monitored. The low detection level (10 ppb) and the potential acquisition of up to seven variables (air/fuel ratio, speed, temperature, etc.) facilitate the understanding of combustion phenomena. For example, H2S storage on a catalyst followed by rapid emission of a H2S peak has clearly been seen at LMM. This system is a powerful aid to engine tuning and emissions reduction.
Development
LMM strongly believes in a green future and orients its research towards new fuel (e.g. bio-fuels) and new balance methods in gas emissions (ETBE, ethanol, methanol, EMVH…)
For more information, contact Mr Sébastien ARACIL s.aracil@le-moteur-moderne.fr
