LECTURE

20th Century Technology Series

The Twentieth Century Technology Series was planned as an opportunity to look back and reflect on the key developments in engineering and technology and their impact on society and the economy. The five speakers were asked to explain the basic principles behind their respective technology and describe how the technology evolved bringing it up to the present day, then speculate on technological prospects after the year 2000.

Victor Suchar, Series Organiser

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THE TECHNOLOGY OF THE COMBUSTION ENGINE AND ITS ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT

Dr J. G. Hawley, Head of Engine Research, Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Bath, on 23 February 1999

The rise in the number of automobiles on the road is having a direct impact on the quality of the air that we breath. Environmental legislation in relation to the production of emissions from automobiles is very stringent especially in Europe, North America and Japan. Consequently, the reduction of emissions from internal combustion engines is receiving considerable attention. Engineering solutions are addressing combustion and after-treatment processes. The diesel engine produces substantially more particulate matter than the gasoline and it is in this area that the greatest challenges lie.

Alternatives to the internal combustion engine as the major prime mover for vehicular application are being developed. This is especially so in the area of electrical drives using batteries and fuel cells. Although the potential exists with such drives to produce zero or nearly zero emission vehicles, there are disadvantages both logistically and technological to such a solution. Battery vehicles suffer from lack of range and of power levels, while fuel cell development is still in the development stage. Consequently, a survey of the major motor manufacturers reveals that by the year 2010 90% of passenger car vehicles will still be powered by high-tech internal combustion engines. The remainder being electric and alternative-fuelled vehicles.

Although emissions from IC engine powered vehicles are being constantly reduced their numbers continue to rise adding to congestion and localised pollution. The net effect on our air quality may take a number of years to quantify. Regardless, the automobile has become a major focus of everyday life and the issues of pollution and congestion will remain for many years to come.

J. Gary Hawley