Development of mobile carbon capture system for motorcycles’ emissions

Abstract

This dissertation investigated the effectiveness of mobile carbon capture technology for reduction of emissions from road transport specifically targeting motorcycles. The study focused on the integration of soda lime and activated carbon as sorbents within a custom-fabricated muffler, which was then attached to the motorcycle's exhaust system. The primary objective was to determine the reduction of carbon dioxide (CO2) and carbon monoxide (CO) emissions from motorcycle exhaust gases before their release into the atmosphere. The four custom-fabricated mufflers were designed to ensure optimal flow of exhaust gases through the sorbent materials. Considerations included the density and surface area of the activated carbon and soda lime, the duration of gas exposure to the sorbents, and the durability of the materials under the high temperatures and pressures found in motorcycle exhaust systems. The design also accounted for minimal interference with the motorcycle's overall performance, ensuring the exhaust system remained functional while maximizing emission reduction. A series of experimental setups were designed to simulate real-world operating conditions of motorcycles. Fabricated muffler capture devices integrated with activated carbon and soda lime, were affixed to the exhaust systems of motorcycles. The effectiveness of these sorbents in reducing CO and CO₂ emissions was assessed by measuring the concentration of these gases before and after exhaust treatment under various operating conditions, such as idling, increased flow rate, and cruising. The muffler with activated carbon showed a significant capacity for adsorbing CO, with an average reduction of 60% across different operating conditions for the focal motorcycles (newer motorcycle). The muffler with soda lime, on the other hand, demonstrated a robust capacity for absorbing CO₂, achieving an average reduction of 78%. The combined use of these sorbents resulted in an overall reduction in carbon emissions by approximately 65% for CO and 80% for CO₂. The findings suggested that mobile carbon capture (MCC) using activated carbon and soda lime could be a feasible strategy for decarbonizing road transport in urban areas, particularly where motorcycles dominate the transportation landscape. However, the long-term effectiveness of these sorbents, potential impacts on motorcycle performance, and the economic viability of widespread implementation require further investigation. This study lays the groundwork for future research on optimizing MCC systems for motorcycles