U.S. patent application number 11/908929 was filed with the patent office on 2012-05-03 for fuel additive for enhancing combustion efficiency and decreasing emissions.
Invention is credited to Lou Basenese, Robert R. Holcomb.
Application Number | 20120102822 11/908929 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 37024366 |
Filed Date | 2012-05-03 |
United States Patent
Application |
20120102822 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Holcomb; Robert R. ; et
al. |
May 3, 2012 |
FUEL ADDITIVE FOR ENHANCING COMBUSTION EFFICIENCY AND DECREASING
EMISSIONS
Abstract
A fuel additive comprising a sol containing particles of at
least one inorganic-metallic component and at least one
organo-metallic component stabilized in a suitable hydrocarbon
medium. The components are formed as a metal complex wherein the
metallic element comprises at least one metal selected from the
elements of Groups VIII to XI in the Periodic Table, preferably
platinum, cobalt, nickel, copper, gold, rhodium or, most
preferably, palladium. The organo component is an alkyl
carboxylate, preferably acetate, and the inorganic component is
derived from silicon, titanium, aluminum, and preferably silicate.
The additive is preferably formed by (a) forming an aqueous
solution of at least one metallic component; (b) forming a colloid
of organo-metallic and inorganic-metallic components from said
solution; and (c) extracting at least some of the metallic
colloidal components from the aqueous solution using a suitable
hydrocarbon medium under controlled PH, temperature and time.
Inventors: |
Holcomb; Robert R.;
(Murfreesboro, TN) ; Basenese; Lou; (Orlando,
FL) |
Family ID: |
37024366 |
Appl. No.: |
11/908929 |
Filed: |
March 16, 2006 |
PCT Filed: |
March 16, 2006 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/US2006/009384 |
371 Date: |
May 21, 2009 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
60662421 |
Mar 16, 2005 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
44/301 ; 44/320;
44/357; 44/358 |
Current CPC
Class: |
C10L 1/1233 20130101;
B01J 13/0026 20130101; B01J 13/0086 20130101; C10L 1/1881 20130101;
C10L 1/10 20130101; C10L 10/02 20130101; C10L 1/1291 20130101; B01J
13/0017 20130101; B01J 13/0047 20130101; C10L 1/1616 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
44/301 ; 44/357;
44/358; 44/320 |
International
Class: |
C10L 1/30 20060101
C10L001/30; C10L 1/28 20060101 C10L001/28 |
Claims
1. A fuel additive comprising particles having at least one
inorganic-metallic component and at least one organo-metallic
component stabilized in a suitable hydrocarbon medium, wherein said
components contain at least one metal selected from the chemical
elements of Groups VIII to XI in the Periodic Table.
2. A fuel additive of claim 1, wherein the particles are a chemical
metallic complex.
3. A fuel additive of claim 2, wherein the complex is characterized
as a sol containing bound water.
4. The fuel additive of claim 1, wherein said metal is selected
from the group consisting of platinum, cobalt, nickel, copper,
gold, rhodium, and palladium.
5. The fuel additive of claim 4, wherein said metal is
palladium.
6. The fuel additive of claim 4, wherein the at least one organo
moiety is an alkyl carboxylate.
7. The fuel additive of claim 6, wherein the organo component is an
alkyl carboxylate containing 1 to 4 carbon atoms.
8. The fuel additive of claim 7, wherein said organo component is
acetate.
9. The fuel additive of claims 1-8, wherein the at least one
inorganic moiety is derived from at least one compound selected
from the group of silicon, titanium, and aluminum-based
compounds.
10. The fuel additive of claim 9, wherein said compounds are
selected from the group of silicate and silicides.
11. The fuel additive of claim 1, wherein said hydrocarbon medium
comprises kerosene.
12. A method for preparing a fuel additive composition, comprising
the steps of: (a) forming an aqueous solution of at least one
metallic component, wherein said metallic component comprises at
least one metal selected from the chemical elements of Groups VIII
to XI in the Periodic Table; (b) forming a colloid of
organo-metallic and inorganic-metallic components in said solution;
and (c) extracting at least a portion of the metallic colloidal
components from the aqueous medium using a suitable hydrocarbon
medium.
13. The method of claim 12, wherein the pH of the extraction
approaches, but remains below, the pH of the hydrocarbon
medium.
14. The method of claim 13, wherein said metal is selected from the
group consisting of platinum, cobalt, nickel, copper, gold,
rhodium, and palladium.
15. The method of claim 14, wherein said metal is palladium.
16. The method of claim 15, wherein the at least one organo moiety
is an alkyl carboxylate.
17. The method of claim 16, wherein the alkyl carboxylate contains
1 to 4 carbon atoms.
18. The method of claim 17, wherein said carboxylate is
acetate.
19. The method of claim 14, 15, 16, 17 or 18, wherein the at least
one inorganic component is derived from at least one compound
selected from the group of silicon, titanium, and aluminum-based
compounds.
20. The method of claim 19, wherein said compounds are selected
from the group of silicates and silicides.
21. The method of claim 20, wherein said compounds are
silicates.
22. The method of claim 12, wherein said hydrocarbon medium
comprises kerosene.
23. The method of claim 12, further comprising the step of
circulating the colloid through a generator means prior to
extracting said components.
24. The method of claim 23, wherein said generator means comprises
an electrostatic generator.
25. The method of claim 23, wherein said generator means comprises
an electromagnetic countercurrent generator.
26. The method of claim 23, wherein said generator means comprises
a static magnetic countercurrent generator.
27. The method of claim 23, wherein said generator means comprises
an electrostatic generator and an electromagnetic countercurrent
generator configured in parallel.
28. The method of claim 12, further comprising the step of adding
said additive composition to fuel in a concentration of at least
200 parts per trillion palladium.
29. The method of claim 12, wherein the concentration is
approximately 250 parts per trillion palladium.
30. A fuel additive formed by the process of claim 12, 13, 14, 15,
16, 17,18, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28 or 29.
31. A fuel additive formed by the process of claim 19.
Description
CROSS REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims priority under 35 U.S.C. .sctn.119
to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/662,421, filed
Mar. 1, 2005, and titled "A Liquid Hydrocarbon Based Fuel Additive
For Enhancing Combustion Efficiency And Decreasing Emissions From
An Internal Combustion Engine, Heating Chamber Or Jet Engine And
Method Of Making Same."
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention relates to improved combustion of
fuels in internal combustion engines, heating chambers and jet
engines.
BACKGROUND
[0003] Burning a fossil fuel in an internal combustion engine, jet
engine or heating furnace presents a hazard to the ecosystem of the
world due to the emissions of hazardous carbon monoxide, oxides of
nitrogen, oxides of sulfur and incompletely burned fossil fuels.
Sulfur dioxide and oxides of nitrogen are major components of acid
rain. Acid rain is toxic to both animals and plants. The burning of
carbon based fuels also releases carbon dioxide into the
environment, therefore increasing greenhouse gases into the
atmosphere. Moreover, crude oil supplies are dwindling worldwide.
It is therefore advantageous to decrease emissions and reduce
consumption by increasing efficiency. It is against this background
that a need arose to develop the present invention.
[0004] Saturated hydrocarbons or alkanes are compounds in which
each carbon atom is bonded with four other atoms. Each hydrogen
atom is bonded to only one carbon atom. Alkanes make up the basic
components of gasoline, diesel fuel, heating oil and natural gas.
These hydrocarbons burn in excess O.sub.2 to produce CO.sub.2 and
H.sub.2O in a highly exothermic process. [0005] Methane:
[0005] CH.sub.4+20.sub.2.fwdarw.CO.sub.2+2H.sub.2O+89IKJ [0006]
N-Octane:
[0006]
2C.sub.8H.sub.18+25O.sub.2.fwdarw.16CO.sub.2+18H.sub.2O+1.090.tim-
es.10.sup.4 KJ
[0007] The heat of combustion is the amount of energy liberated per
mole of hydrocarbon burned. The combustion of hydrocarbons produces
a large volume of gases in addition to a large amount of heat. The
rapid formation and expansion of these gases at high temperature
and pressure drives the piston or turbine blades in internal
combustion engines. A large fraction of the pressure is due to the
expansion of the water formed in the combustion reaction upon
vaporization. At ambient pressure (.about.one atmosphere), water
expands to 1,700 times its volume as it moves from liquid to vapor
phase.
[0008] However, smog and acid rain may result from the combustion
process, specifically from the production of carbon, carbon
monoxide, unburned hydrocarbons, oxides of nitrogen and other
non-metal oxides.
[0009] In the absence of sufficient oxygen, partial combustion of
the hydrocarbons occurs. As indicated below, the products may be
carbon monoxide (a very poisonous gas), carbon and unburned
hydrocarbon.
2CH.sub.4+30.sub.2.fwdarw.2CO+4H.sub.2O
and
CH.sub.4+O.sub.2.fwdarw.C+2H.sub.2O
and
CH.sub.4+O.sub.2.revreaction.incomplete burn CH.sub.4+O.sub.2
[0010] Nitrogen oxides are produced in the atmosphere by natural
processes. Human activities contribute to about 10% of all oxides
of nitrogen (referred to as NOx) in the atmosphere, occurring
mostly in the urban areas where the oxides may be present in
concentrations a hundred times greater than in rural areas. Just as
NO is produced naturally by reaction of N.sub.2 and O.sub.2 in
electrical storms, it is also produced by some reactions at high
temperatures of internal combustion engines and furnaces.
N.sub.2(g)+O.sub.2.revreaction.2NO(g).DELTA.H=180 KJ
[0011] This reaction does not occur to any significant extent at
ordinary temperatures. It is endothermic, i.e. favored at high
temperatures. However, oxides of nitrogen (NO and NO.sub.2) form in
an internal combustion engine if the combustion temperatures within
a cylinder exceed some 2,500.degree. F. (1,371.degree. C.). This
can occur when the engine is "under load." When temperatures are
examined, the greatest amount of NOx is typically produced at the
stoichiometric point (AFR of 14.7) as the engine is under light
load. Even in internal combustion engines and furnaces, the
equilibrium still lies far to the left, so only small amounts of NO
are produced and released into the atmosphere. However, very small
concentrations of nitrogen oxides (NOx) cause serious problems.
[0012] The NO radical reacts with O.sub.2 to produce NO.sub.2
residual. Both NO and NO.sub.2 are very reactive and do
considerable damage to plants and animals. It forms one of the
components of acid rain, nitric acid (HNO.sub.3).
3NO.sub.2+H.sub.2O.fwdarw.NO+2HNO.sub.3
[0013] Pollution of the stratosphere with nitrogen oxides (NO and
NO.sub.2) causes reduction of the stratospheric ozone. Ozone
reduction in the stratosphere has been linked to biological effects
such as skin cancer. Pollution of the stratosphere also involves a
climate chain of cause and effect relation by which aircraft engine
effluents, notably sulfur dioxide (SO.sub.2) and to a lower degree
water vapor (H.sub.2O) and nitrogen oxides (NOx), affect climate
change variables such as temperature, wind and rainfall.
[0014] The catalyst of the current invention is believed to lower
the amount of NOx released to the environment by three distinct
mechanisms: 1) reduced total fuel consumption; 2) catalytic
reduction of NOx back to N.sub.2 and O.sub.2; and 3) lowering of
the activation temperature required for combustion.
[0015] Non-metal oxides are called acid anhydrides because many of
them dissolve in water to form acid with no change in the oxidation
state of the non-metal. Except for the oxides of boron and silicon,
which are insoluble, nearly all oxides of non-metal dissolve in
water to give acid solutions. For example:
[0016] 1. Carbon dioxide
CO.sub.2(g)+H.sub.2O(1).fwdarw.H.sub.2CO.sub.3aq
[0017] 2. Sulfur dioxide
SO.sub.2(g)+H.sub.2O(1).fwdarw.H.sub.2SO.sub.3 sulfurous acid
[0018] 3. Sulfur trioxide
SO.sub.3(g)+H.sub.2O.fwdarw.H.sub.2SO.sub.4 sulfuric acid
[0019] Petroleum (crude oil) consists mainly of hydrocarbons with
small amounts of inorganic compounds containing nitrogen and
sulfur.
[0020] It is apparent from the above analysis that carbon monoxide
is a threat to the health and welfare of the earth's animal
population. Carbon dioxide, sulfur dioxide, and NOx also threaten
plant and animal population, due to their role in acid rain
formation. Carbon dioxide is also recognized as the major
greenhouse gas. The major end-product of fossil fuel combustion is
carbon dioxide and water. It is believed by many environmental
scientists that the continuous increase of CO.sub.2 in our
atmosphere is placing the earth on a course of destruction due to
the "greenhouse gas effect" and subsequent global warming.
[0021] Accordingly, there exists a great need to address the
reduction of hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide, and NOx (NO and
NO.sub.2) emissions, and improve fuel efficiency, in internal
combustion engines, heating furnaces and jet engines.
[0022] This great economic and environmental need has lead many to
propose various fuel additives in an attempt to improve fuel
economy and/or reduce exhaust pollutants. To date, however such
attempts have been unsuccessful.
[0023] U.S. Pat. Publication No. 2005/0081430 to Carroll et al.
("Carroll") discloses the use of a broad range of organo-metallic
complexes and electrolytes soluble in solvents, including, for
example, platinum and palladium, including palladium (II) acetate
trimer [Pd(CH.sub.3CO.sub.2).sub.2].sub.3. However, the methods
described in Carroll are generally limited to the use of starting
compounds which are soluble in water.
[0024] U.S. Pat. No. 4,129,421 to Webb discloses a catalytic fuel
additive for use in engines or furnaces. The additive employs a
solution of picric acid and ferrous sulphate in specified
alcohol.
[0025] U.S. Pat. No. 2,402,427 to Miller and Liber discloses the
use of broad groupings of diesel-fuel-soluble organic and
organo-metallic compounds as ignition promoters.
[0026] U.S. Pat. Nos. 2,086,775 and 2,151,432 to Lyons and McKone
disclose adding an organo-metallic compound or mixture to a base
fuel such as gasoline, benzene, fuel, oil, kerosene or blends to
improve various aspects of engine performance. Among the metals
disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 2,086,775 are platinum, palladium,
chromium and aluminum. In both patents, the preferred
organo-metallic compounds were beta diketone and derivatives and
their homologues, such as the metal acetylacetonates, proprionyl
acetonates, formyl acetonates and the like.
[0027] U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,891,050 and 4,892,562 and WO No. 86/03492
to Bowers and Sprague disclose the use of fuel-soluble platinum
group metal compounds (including palladium) to improve fuel economy
in gasoline and diesel engines.
[0028] WO 98/33871 to Peter-Hoblyn et al. and assigned to Clean
Diesel Technologies, Inc., discloses fuel-soluble platinum
compounds, including platinum acetyl acetonate, and purports to
enable reduction of emissions.
[0029] U.S. Pat. No. 5,034,020 to Epperly et al. discloses the use
of platinum group compounds, including palladium acetylene.
[0030] U.S. Pat. No. 4,153,579 to Summers et al. discloses the use
of platinum, rhodium and palladium for emission control.
[0031] U.S. Pat. No. 4,170,573 to Ernest et al. discloses the use
of platinum group metals to promote oxidation.
[0032] U.S. Pat. No. 4,629,472 to Hanley et al. discloses the use
of palladium, including palladium oxide and palladium chloride.
[0033] U.S. Pat. No. 5,876,467 to Hohn et al. discloses the use of
carboxylic esters as fuel additives. It discloses using acetates of
metal compounds, including palladium as catalysts in the
preparation of the carboxylic esters.
[0034] American Technologies Group, Inc. offers a gel pack product,
marked under the trade name Force.TM., which purports to treat air
intake into the engine chamber.
[0035] National Fuel Saver Corporation of Newton, Mass. offers a
platinum based product that purportedly "can increase fuel mileage
of gasoline-powered vehicles up to 22% fuel savings."
[0036] Clean Diesel Technologies, Inc. offers a fuel-borne catalyst
product under the trade name Platinum Plus.TM. that purports to
reduce particulate emissions by 25%, hydrocarbons by 35% and carbon
monoxide by 11%.
[0037] Firepower offers a product under the trade name Firepower
Pill.TM. which purports to reduce emissions and improve fuel
economy. It also offers a diesel product.
[0038] Other prior art has addressed the use of colloids in fuels
or in connection with dispersing catalysts. For example, GB 745,012
to Cliff discloses a method of producing a dispersion of an
inorganic colloid in fuel oil, which comprises mixing a hydrogel of
an inorganic colloid with the fuel oil, separating the water, and
mechanically working the colloid system. The patent further
discloses preparation of silica gel by subjecting sodium silicate
to sulfuric acid and agitating until the product possesses a pH
value of about 6.
[0039] WO No. 2005/003265 to Gilburt et al. discloses a gel
additive containing a fuel-born organo-metallic compound (including
platinum).
[0040] U.S. Publication No. 2001/0027219 in the name of Robert R.
Holcomb discloses an inorganic polymer electret ("IPE") made of a
dipolar colloidal silica particle. Applications of the IPE include
fuels. The IPE is described as improving dispersion and sludging at
low temperatures. A generator is also disclosed (see FIGS.
7-9).
[0041] U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,537,363 and 5,658,573 in the name of Robert
R. Holcomb disclose a method of generating a relatively stable
aqueous suspension of colloidal silica by circulating a solution of
silica particles through a magnetic field.
[0042] WO No. 2004/065529 discloses use of cerium oxide which has
been doped with palladium or platinum.
[0043] An article titled "Preparation of highly dispersed
silica-supported catalysts by a completing agent-assisted sol-gel
method and their characteristics," by Tanaka et al. ("Tanaka"),
discloses Pd/SiO.sub.2 catalysts prepared by an agent-assisted
sol-gel method. Tanaka does not disclose the preparation of fuel
additives. Rather, the palladium gel sol is applied to a carrier
surface, dried, and activated with hydrogen.
[0044] An article titled "Solubility of palladium in silicate
melts: Implications for core formation in the Earth," by Borison et
al. discloses palladium solubilities in silicate melts.
[0045] Again, these efforts in the past have failed to achieve an
acceptable level of improvement and have failed to recognize or
appreciate the nature and benefits of the present invention.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0046] The present invention relates to a novel fuel additive
product and a method for making such additive, which decreases
toxic exhaust emissions and increases the efficiency of the burn.
Without limiting the invention to any specific theory of operation,
the fuel additive composition of the invention is believed, based
on the available evidence, to operate by depositing and activating
a reversible microfilm catalyst on the combustion surfaces of
internal combustion engines, heat chambers and jet engines. The
fuel additive of the present invention comprises a sol of an
inorganic-metallic and organo-metallic complex stabilized in a
suitable hydrocarbon medium. In accordance with one embodiment of
the invention, the complex component of the inventive composition
is itself derived from an aqueous colloidal gel-sol composition in
which the inorganic-metallic and organo-metallic complex components
are formed and bound.
[0047] The metallic component of the complex according to the
invention may be derived from one or more metals from the chemical
elements in Groups VIII to XI in the Periodic Table, including
platinum, cobalt, nickel, copper, gold, rhodium, and, preferably,
palladium.
[0048] The organo component of the organo-metallic component may be
one or more of the alkyl carboxylates, such as alkyl carboxylates
having one to four carbon atoms, preferably acetate. Other longer
chain alkyl carboxylates maybe used within the skill of the art
depending on inter alia solubility factors.
[0049] The inorganic component of the complex may be derived from
one or more silicon, titanium or aluminum based compounds,
preferably silicate, and most preferably, palladium silicate. It is
believed that when a silica based colloid is used, for example, the
complex includes various silicides, silicates, oxides, and
ions.
[0050] The metallic complex components of the additive according to
the invention are formed by any suitable technique, preferably by
the methods of the invention, and dispersed in a hydrocarbon
medium, such as xylene, jet fuel, diesel fuel, and, preferably,
kerosene. In one embodiment, the sol particles are a colloidal
complex dispersed as a stable suspension in the hydrocarbon medium.
In the practice of the invention, where the complex particles are
extracted from an aqueous colloidal precursor, the particles are
preferably less than about 20 microns, preferably where the major
portion of a particle distribution is less than 20 microns. When
exposed to a combustion chamber, for example, the stabilized
particles are believed to be adhered to the walls of the combustion
chamber, so as to function effectively to achieve improved fuel
performance.
[0051] The fuel additive is further characterized as containing
particles wherein a small portion of water from the hydrosol
precursor is bound within the sol particles to be extracted, and
dispersed within the hydrocarbon medium.
[0052] These complexes are believed to deposit reversible
microfilms on combustion surfaces of internal combustion engines,
heat chambers and hot sections of jet engines. The combustion
process is believed to oxidize the organic portions of the complex
leaving a lattice complex catalytic microfilm with a specific
surface area, porosity, metal dispersion, surface composition and
surface catalytic activity.
[0053] The catalytic activity increases the speed of combustion
and, therefore, the efficiency of hydrocarbon fuels, and decreases
the emissions of sulfur dioxide (SO.sub.2), oxides of nitrogen
(NO.sub.x) and carbon monoxide (CO) and hydrocarbons as well as
carbon dioxide.
[0054] The invention also relates to a novel method for obtaining
the fuel additive of the present invention. A concentrate of
inorganic-metallic and organo-metallic complex components may be
extracted from an aqueous colloidal precursor into the hydrocarbon
medium and used as such, or may, thereafter, be optionally diluted
to achieve the fuel additive complex. The invention includes all
products made by such methods.
[0055] It is believed that the particles, through one embodiment of
the process of the present invention, are electrostatically charged
and polarized, the degree of polarization being dependent on
several factors, including pH. This technique is believed to
enhance the adhesiveness of the active ingredients of the sol to
the combustion surfaces in the chamber.
[0056] In accordance with one aspect of the invention as embodied
and as broadly described herein, the additive may be obtained
by:
[0057] 1. forming an aqueous solution of the metallic component, in
any known manner;
[0058] 2. adding organic and inorganic moieties in suitable form to
the aqueous metallic solution or admixture to obtain a metal
complex having organic and inorganic components;
[0059] 3. forming a colloid of the resulting organo-metallic and
inorganic-metallic components, preferably under controlled pH,
temperature and time conditions;
[0060] 4. extracting the metallic colloidal complex from the
aqueous solution using a suitable hydrocarbon medium, preferably
under controlled pH, temperature and time conditions, and most
preferably wherein the pH approaches, but is maintained below, the
pH of the hydrocarbon medium to maintain a sol and avoid the
formation of a gel; and
[0061] 5. optionally, the resulting extraction concentrate may
thereafter be further diluted. The extraction concentrate itself
may be used as the fuel additive.
[0062] The process according to the invention is preferably
practiced using agitation or orientation techniques to form the
aqueous precursor as well as the active sol, using an oscillation
mechanism, such as a mechanical oscillator, and most preferably
using one or more electrostatic generators, electromagnetic
countercurrent generators, static magnetic countercurrent
generators or electromagnetic oscillators.
[0063] The present invention may be practiced by a variety of
chemical and physical processes in order to manufacture the desired
catalyst. It is believed that when the active catalyst is exposed
to the combustion chamber walls, it adheres to the chamber surface.
This adhesive quality facilitates the formation of a catalytic
matrix on the surface of the combustion chamber which is believed
to enable the improved catalytic action of the inventive
composition.
[0064] The chemical and physical qualities of the current invention
are believed to allow this adhesive phenomenon to occur. Heat from
the combustion of the fossil fuels oxidizes the organic portion of
the organo-metallic which has been deposited on the catalytic
surface, thereby allowing a matrix to form.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF FIGURES
[0065] FIG. 1 represents in diagrammatic form an electrostatic
generator which may be used to generate the colloid substrate and
active receptor sites needed during product synthesis;
[0066] FIG. 2 represents in diagrammatic form an electromagnetic
countercurrent generator which may be used to generate the colloid
substrate and active receptor sites during product synthesis;
[0067] FIG. 3 represents a sectional view of the countercurrent
generator in accordance with one aspect of the present invention
with a plot of the magnetic field gradients in the "z" axis;
[0068] FIG. 4 represents in diagrammatic form a static magnetic
countercurrent generator which may be used to generate the colloid
substrate and active receptor sites during product synthesis;
[0069] FIG. 5 represents a schematic of an electrostatic generator
and an electromagnetic countercurrent generator configured in
parallel;
[0070] FIG. 6 represents in diagrammatic form an electrostatic
generator oscillator system (EGOS) in accordance with one aspect of
the present invention;
[0071] FIG. 7 represents in a diagrammatic form an electromagnetic
cyclic oscillator in accordance with one aspect of the present
invention;
[0072] FIG. 8 represents in diagrammatic form a mechanical fluid
oscillator system in accordance with one aspect of the present
invention;
[0073] FIG. 9 represents in diagrammatic form the mechanical air
oscillator system in accordance with one aspect of the present
invention;
[0074] FIG. 10 represents the inventors' understanding of the
mechanism of action of the additive when added to an engine
chamber; and
[0075] FIG. 11 represents an XPS spectrum of an XPS scan of a
piston head after being activated by the fuel additive of the
present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0076] Without limiting the invention to specific theories of
operation or to the specific embodiments disclosed herein, the
inventors' preferred embodiments, as well as the inventors' present
understanding of the theory of operation, will now be
described.
[0077] With respect to the active moiety of the fuel additive, it
is the inventors' belief that the aqueous colloid, such as a silica
colloid, is a processing aide and a carrier to the combustion
chamber wall such that adhesion occurs through an electrostatic
charge on the palladium silicate, palladium silicide and palladium
acetate bound to the silica colloid of the invention. The palladium
silicate colloid complex is moderately soluble in kerosene and
soluble in pH 4.35 aqueous (partition coefficient .about.1/10). PdO
is insoluble in aqueous at pH 4.35 and kerosene. Palladium (II)
acetate is insoluble in water and at least substantially insoluble
in organic, but is soluble in acetic acid.
[0078] In the practice of the preferred method of synthesis of the
additive discussed below, palladium acetate, palladium oxide,
palladium silicate and palladium silicides are believed to be
formed along with a silica colloid. The palladium oxide is not
soluble in either the pH 4.35 acetic acid nor kerosene, the
palladium silicate is soluble in both (.about.1/10 partition
coefficient) and the palladium acetate is only soluble in the pH
4.35 acetic acid silicate colloid solution. However, the palladium
acetate is believed complexed with the silica colloid along with
the palladium silicate. This complex is extracted by kerosene at a
volume ratio of 1/2 to 1/1 and a partition coefficient of about
1/10. The palladium acetate is believed to be more soluble in
kerosene when complexed with the silica colloid.
[0079] It is the inventors' belief that the primary palladium
compound which is most active in the present invention for the
early deposition stage onto the combustion chamber surface is
palladium silicate. The silicate forms the initial deposit. The
palladium acetate decomposes in the flame front forming palladium
oxide, palladium metal and palladium ions. Other experiments in the
literature (Borisob and Spettel) in which palladium solubilities in
silicate melts were studied in a variety of O.sub.2 concentrations
and temperatures ranging from 1343 to 1472.degree. C. are believed
to be revealing to the mechanisms of the current invention. In such
studies, palladium concentrations were determined by neutron
activation analysis. Repeated analyses of the silica by Borisob and
Spettel after removal of the outer layer and several reversed
experiments with initially high palladium in the glass showed that
equilibrium was attained in the experiments. At 1350.degree. C.
concentrations of Pd in silicate melts range from 428 ppm to 1.2
ppm with decreasing palladium at decreasing oxygen concentrations.
The data suggests a change in valence of the dominant palladium
species in the silica melt. The data is most compatible with the
assumption of mixtures of Pd.sub.2.sup.+, Pd.sub.1.sup.+ and PdO in
the melt with increasing contributions of the lower valence species
at increasing reducing conditions.
[0080] The data of the current invention when taken in its entirety
is believed to reveal that the palladium silicate, palladium
acetate, silica colloid complex is extracted by kerosene from the
finished liquor of the synthesis and reacts within the chamber as
described herein. Preferably the kerosene mixture is diluted and
placed into the fuel tank in a final concentration preferably of
approximately 250 parts per trillion of palladium. The fuel is
injected into the combustion chamber through the intake valves; the
flame front is ignited by the compression and by the spark plug.
The palladium silicate is believed carried by the silica colloid
complex and deposited in small amounts on the walls of the
combustion chamber, where it becomes annealed to the metal in the
2600.degree. F. (1427.degree. C.) atmosphere. The palladium acetate
is oxidized into a mixture of Pd.sup.2+, Pd.sup.4+ and PdO. This
mixture partitions itself into the silica matrix and forms an
oxidation reduction catalyst. The palladium valances and catalytic
effects change as the air intake temperatures and O.sub.2
concentrations change. The catalyst effect is in equilibrium with
the conditions of temperature and oxygen and compression within the
combustion chamber.
Detailed Description of Generator Systems
[0081] The palladium acetate, palladium silicate, silica colloid
complex is preferably synthesized using one or more of the
following generators and oscillators (collectively "generator
means") as described in detail herein. These useful generators and
oscillators may be used alone or in many combinations and
configurations, such as in parallel or in series. In the most
preferred embodiment, the electrostatic generator of FIG. 1 and
electromagnetic counter current generator of FIG. 2 are used in
parallel and fed by reservoir (24) as shown in FIG. 5.
Alternatively, the generator of FIGS. 1 and 4 may be used in
parallel.
1. Electrostatic Generator
[0082] The electrostatic generator system depicted in FIG. 1 allows
manipulation of the electrostatic and electromagnetic flux of the
system by control of the frequency and intensity of electrical
pulses delivered to antennae (25 and 26). It is believed to allow
empiric manipulation of receptor sites on various organic and
inorganic polymers.
[0083] The antennae system (25) receives impulses at 50,000 to
100,000 cycles per second through conductors (7 and 8). The
impulses are generated by high voltage high frequency transformer
(16) powered through conductors (17) from one side of bridge
rectifier (18), powered by 120 volts AC conductors (19 and 20). The
antenna system (26) receives these high frequency impulses at 60
impulses per second through conductors (9 and 10). The impulses are
generated by high voltage, high frequency transformers (11) powered
through conductors (12) from one side of a bridge rectifier (13)
powered by 120 volt AC conductor (14 and 15), powered by the same
AC power source (27) as 19 and 20. Therefore, the two paired
antenna systems are powered simultaneously countercurrent to each
other.
[0084] The generator system is prepared for operation by placing
fluid in the reservoir (24). Generator (5) is placed in a 22-inch
(55.88 cm) (one atmosphere) vacuum by opening valve (4), turning on
vacuum pump (1), and pulling vacuum through conduit (2). When
complete vacuum of one atmosphere has been reached valve 4 is
closed.
[0085] Fluid pump (22) is turned on at 20 gpm (75.71 liters per
minute). Fluid is drawn from reservoir (24) through conduit (23)
and pushed through valve (21) by pump (22) through coils (6) and
out through conduit (28) back into reservoir (24) and the cycle
continues.
2. Electromagnetic Countercurrent Generator
[0086] The electromagnetic countercurrent generator system depicted
in FIG. 2 allows various organic and inorganic polymers to be
exposed to a four polar DC powered electromagnetic clusters (43,
44, 45 and 46) at equally spaced intervals along the generator
housing (37). It is believed to allow structuring of receptor sites
in an empiric fashion. The electromagnetic clustering is structured
in alternating polarity as revealed in FIG. 2 and FIG. 3. The DC
current leads depicted in clusters (44, 45 and 46) are wired
through a series of rheostats such that the magnetic field
gradients can be manipulated for changes in structure of the
colloids which are evolving as they are repeatedly circulated
through the magnetic field gradients of the invention.
[0087] The generator system is prepared for operation by placing
fluid (35) in reservoir (31). Pump (33) is then activated and fluid
(35) is pumped through conduit (32) via a positive displacement
pump (33), through conduit (34) into generator housing (37) through
conduit 36.
[0088] The fluid flows to the distal end of conduit (50) (1/2''
(1.3 cm) plastic tubing) where it exits into surrounding conduit
(47) (1'' (2.5 cm) plastic tubing) through holes (41) (43/8'' (1 cm
holes in pipe). The fluid flows back to the proximal end and exits
through holes (39/40) (43/8'' (1 cm) holes in pipe) into conduit
(48) (11/2'' (1.3 cm) plastic tubing). The fluid flows to the
distal end and exits through holes (42) (43/8'' (1 cm) holes in
pipe) into conduit (49) where it travels into reservoir (38) and
through conduit 30 back into reservoir (31) and the cycle
continues. In the exemplary embodiment, the generator housing (37)
include five concentric circles. The alternating paths of charged
particles flowing through conduits (65, 64 and 63) create magnetic
fields through which such particles travel.
[0089] FIG. 3 reveals a cross sectional view (with lines A-A' noted
for measurement purposes) of the electromagnetic countercurrent
generator cluster with alternating polarity and the plotted field
gradients. These gradients may be varied by alternating the amount
of DC current on one or more of the energy poles of the four pole
clusters. This gradient manipulation is advantageous in altering
the colloid matrix of the invention, which enhances the carrier
ability of the colloid for the palladium catalyst.
3. Static Magnetic Countercurrent Generator
[0090] The static magnetic countercurrent generator system depicted
in FIG. 4 allows the various organic and inorganic polymers to be
exposed to a four polar static magnetic cluster 68 at equally
spaced intervals along generator housing (58). It is believed to
allow structuring of static receptor sites, in an empiric fashion.
The static magnetic clustering is structured in alternating
polarity as revealed in FIG. 4 with field gradients similar to that
shown in FIG. 3. The electrostatic and magnetic forces allow
control in structure of the colloids which are evolving as they are
repeatedly circulated through the magnetic and electrostatic fields
of the generator.
[0091] The generator system of FIG. 4 is prepared for operation by
placing fluid (55) into reservoir (31). Pump (54) is then activated
and fluid (55) is pumped through conduit (52) via positive
displacement pump (54), through conduit (56) into generator housing
(58), which is similar to the generator used in FIG. 2, through
conduit (57). The fluid flows to the distal end of conduit (65)
(1/2'' (1.3 cm) plastic tubing) where it exits into surrounding
conduit (64) (1'' (2.5 cm) plastic tubing) through holes (66)
(43/8'' (1 cm) holes in pipe). The fluid flows back to the proximal
end and exits through holes (60 and 61) (43/8'' (1 cm) holes in
pipe) into conduit (63) (11/2'' (1.3 cm) plastic tubing). The fluid
flows to the distal end and exits through holes (67) (43/8'' (1 cm)
holes in pipe) into conduit (63) where it flows into reservoir (59)
and through conduit (51) back into reservoir (53) and the cycle
continues.
4. Electromagnetic Oscillator
[0092] The electromagnetic oscillator system depicted in FIG. 6
serves as an electromagnetic oscillator pump. This system
oscillates the colloidal fluid as it is forming the desired colloid
of the invention. The oscillation inhibits premature gel formation
and allows the desired colloid to evolve.
[0093] The oscillator system may be installed at any point in the
generator system. During operation fluid flows through conduit
(68), through one way valve (69) into reservoir (70). The magnetic
oscillator ferromagnetic piston (77) is oscillated in a distal, and
proximal direction with plastic piston sleeve (74) thereby drawing
fluid in through one way valve (69) and pushing out through conduit
(71) through one way valve (72) and out through conduit (73). The
piston is oscillated by two series of electromagnetic coils which
are wound in parallel but power in opposite directions as in coils
(75 and 76). The series of coils (75) starts with (+) lead (78) and
ends with (-) lead (79) and are powered by one side of an AC power
(83) bridge rectifier (82). The series of coils (76) starts by a
feed into the opposite end and goes in the opposite direction.
These coils are fed by (+) lead (80) and end with (-) lead
(81).
[0094] The two sets of coils are therefore fed in opposite
directions and alternate by being fed from two opposite sides of a
bridge rectifier.
5. Electromagnetic Cyclic High Frequency Oscillator
[0095] The electromagnetic high frequency oscillator system
depicted in FIG. 7 provides high frequency eddy current oscillation
as well as cyclic electromagnetic mixing which is believed to allow
structuring of certain organic and inorganic polymer colloids with
desired receptor sites on which the catalyst of the invention can
form and be bound for effective deposit upon catalytic surfaces.
This empiric structuring allows optimal formation of a catalytic
structure which is believed to deposit on the surface of combustion
chambers and is heat activated to provide a very active catalytic
surface.
[0096] This electromagnetic high frequency oscillator system may be
installed at any point in the generator system. During operation
fluid flows through conduit (87) and through the reservoir to the
distal portion where it empties into reservoir (85) and exits
through conduit (86). Reservoir (85) is housed inside the stator of
a 5 hp 3 phase 240 volt 1800 rpm electric motor. The 240 volt power
source (92) is energized by a 3 phase 240 volt service (93). Power
source (92) contains a static resistor in each of the three lines
(89, 90 and 91). The inline resistors are necessary to avoid
overloading the stator coils since the armature has been removed.
The total amperage of the system is 13 amps.
6. Mechanical Fluid Oscillator
[0097] The mechanical fluid oscillator system depicted in FIG. 8
provides for high frequency oscillation of the fluid in the system
by impacting fluid flowing through conduit (94) through expansion
valve (99) into fluid flowing through conduit (97) through
expansion valve 100. This causes violent oscillation in reservoir
(95). The oscillating fluid (98) flows out through conduit (96).
This high frequency oscillation disperses the colloid as it
circulates through the system thereby preventing premature gel
formation as the colloid evolves into the desired structure of the
invention.
7. Mechanical Air Oscillator
[0098] The mechanical air oscillator system depicted in FIG. 9
provides for high frequency oscillation of the fluid in the system
by importing fluid flowing through conduit (101) along with high
pressure air through conduit (102), through nozzle (107) into fluid
flowing through conduit (106) and air through conduit (105) through
nozzle (108) and colliding in chamber (103) and flowing out through
conduit (104). This collision causes violent oscillations in
reservoir (103). This high frequency oscillation disperses the
colloid as it circulates through the system thereby preventing
premature gel formation as the desired colloid evolves into the
structure which is advantageous for the current invention. In a
preferred embodiment, the mechanical oscillator of FIG. 9 is used
in series with the outputs of the generators of FIGS. 1 and 2 which
are placed in parallel.
Detailed Description of the Synthesis of the Additive
[0099] The fuel additive of the present invention is preferably
synthesized using the following process:
[0100] (a) under controlled conditions, such as pH, form an aqueous
solution of the organo-metallic compound;
[0101] (b) the solution is mixed using an agitator, preferably an
electrostatic generator;
[0102] (c) an inorganic ester is added under controlled conditions,
including pH;
[0103] (d) the solution is again mixed using an agitator such as
described in step (b);
[0104] (e) a hydrocarbon carrier is added;
[0105] (f) the resulting emulsion is agitated sufficiently to
equilibrate the organic and aqueous components; and
[0106] (g) the hydrocarbon colloidal layer is extracted, for
subsequent dilution to achieve a functional fuel additive.
[0107] A most preferred process for preparing the additive will now
be described.
[0108] As noted above, it is preferred to place the electrostatic
and electromagnetic countercurrent generators in parallel such as
is shown in FIG. 5. The fluid is pumped out of a reservoir via a
positive displacement pump through the parallel circuit, through
the generators, and then back to the reservoir.
[0109] The preferred procedure is as follows:
[0110] 1. All wetted surfaces are cleaned.
[0111] 2. The fluid reservoir is filled with Glacial acetic--3
gallons (11,400 ml).
[0112] 3. One (1) gallon (3800 ml) of distilled water is added.
[0113] 4. The generator system is circulated at a rate of 20
gallons (75.71 liters) per minute for 45 minutes. This results in a
pH for the solution of approximately 2.08.
[0114] 5. At ambient temperature and over a 30 minute period, 400
ml of aqua regia (hydrochloric and nitric acids) which contains 6
grams of solubilized palladium metal are added. This results in a
final pH for the solution of approximately 1.74. The solublized Pd
is predominantly in the form of PdO, Pd(NO.sub.3).sub.2,
PdNO.sub.3, PdCl.sub.2, PdCl and Pd. This aqua regia solution is
slowly titrated into the concentration of acetic acid and distilled
water.
[0115] 6. The generator is run for 90 minutes. The solution evolves
from a reddish brown color (which is a monomer form of palladium
acetate) to a brilliant gold (which is a timer state of the
compound). This completes the synthesis of palladium acetate.
[0116] 7. Slowly (over approximately an 80 minute period) 1.6
gallons (6,080 ml) of sodium silicate 41.degree. (28.6%) SiO.sub.2
are added to the solution with constant circulation until the pH
reaches 4.35. The solution turns dark brown to a burned orange
color The colloid evolves as it reacts with the palladium salts and
the palladium acetate timer. The silica polymer sequesters the
palladium acetate timer via electrostatic bonding as well as
binding with palladium ions to form covalent bonds with the
resulting palladium silicate groups which are bound to the colloid.
Palladium ions are also sequestered by the silica colloid.
[0117] 8. The generators are then for approximately 11/2 hours at a
rate of approximately 10 to 20 gallons (37.85 to 75.71 liters) per
minute.
[0118] 9. At 60 minutes into above 11/2 hr circulation, 0.5 gallons
(1,900 ml) of distilled water are added this results in a final pH
of approximately 4.35 and a final volume of 6.1 gallons.
[0119] 10. At 90 minutes (11/2 hours), 3 gallons (11,400 ml) of
kerosene are added to the generator reservoir and emulsion is
circulated through the parallel generators for an additional 2
hours to equilibrate the organic and aqueous solutions.
[0120] 11. The solutions are then allowed to separate. The kerosene
layer (a brilliant golden color) is harvested and stored.
[0121] 12. A 30 ml aliquot of the kerosene mixture is diluted up to
one gallon (3800 ml) to make the functional additive.
[0122] 13. An aliquot of one to three ml (one-three milliliters) is
added to each gallon of fuel in the tank of the internal combustion
engine.
[0123] Characterization of the additive: The kerosene extract
produced by the above process was evaluated by X-ray photon
emission spectroscopy (XPS). Binding energy peaks were compared to
literature values as well as standards of 80,000 ppm silica colloid
extracted with kerosene, palladium acetate, palladium oxide and
palladium chloride. The analyses of the data reveals that the
extract contains palladium acetate, silica which is bound to other
substances--likely palladium and palladium acetate along with
palladium ions likely bound in the colloid matrix. These palladium
ions are seen as palladium oxide due to the method of sample
preparation (heated on hot plate at 500.degree. C. to evaporate the
kerosene). Repeated sample analysis over a six week period
indicated that the additive is stable during this period. Analysis
of subsequently synthesized batches reveals reproducibility of
manufacturing.
[0124] Characterization of the colloid: Samples were analyzed by
Beckman Coulter Labs on samples 20,000 ppm silica, 40,000 ppm
silica and 80,000 ppm silica at pH 6.16 and pH 7.89. The silica
concentration in the preferred formula of the invention is 69,000
ppm silica in the aqueous phase. It was found that the average
colloid particle size was 20-30 in diameter. The average Zeta
potential is -40 to -45 (mV). The particle size and Zeta potential
play a role in the tendency of the colloidal particle to attach to
the surface of various combustion chambers to which the product of
the invention may be exposed. Particles 20-30 microns are small
enough such that they don't have a tendency to be polar and have
exclusively aqueous solubility. This 20-30 micron colloid particle
has a partition coefficient of 0.1 or 1/10 (organic/aqueous) at pH
4.35. Since the colloid binds some of the more polar palladium
salts and oxides the colloid carries the desired Palladium over
into the organic phase. The interior of a combustion chamber is net
negatively charged. As the Zeta potential indicates, the colloid of
the invention is attracted to the negative electrode in the
electric field of the Zeta potentiometer. When the air/fuel aerosol
is pulled into the combustion chamber, it is the inventors' belief
that the colloid is attracted to the surface where the high
temperature (2,000.degree. F. (1,093.degree. C.) to 2,600.degree.
F. (1,427.degree. C.)) converts the colloid into a thin silica melt
which is a base matrix into which the palladium distributes and
evolves into an effective catalytic surface.
[0125] It appears from XPS data and study of the catalytic effects,
that the additive of the invention when synthesized without silica
colloid, other colloid or without any generator produces a poorly
active additive without silica in the kerosene extract in both
cases therefore activation of additive onto wall of combustion
chamber.
[0126] The solubility and color of the compounds of the invention:
Many additives of the present invention are poorly soluble unless
complexed to the colloid of the invention. As discussed herein, it
is the inventor's believe that the product of the inventive process
is a mixture of the monomer and trimer of Palladium acetate with
traces of palladium oxide and palladium silicate.
Other Alternate Embodiments
[0127] Other colloids may be substituted in the present invention
other than silica colloids. These other colloids may function alone
or in combination with silica in the current invention. Two such
colloids are titanium and aluminum, but not limited to these two
colloids. One such colloid which is particularly useful in diesel
and jet fuel catalyst is a titanium hydroxide colloid. This
catalyst is most effective when the titanium is used in combination
with silica.
[0128] Another useful metal hydroxide is aluminum, particularly
when used in combination with silica. The silica, aluminum colloid
provides a superior support matrix upon which the palladium
catalyst may form on the combustion surface of an internal
combustion engine and/or other combustion surfaces.
Performance Data
[0129] Fuel additives prepared in accordance with the present
invention have been tested in a variety of automobiles and have
been shown to improve gasoline mileage in a majority of case's
across a range of 15% to 35% (with some as high as 55%) and, while
some emission tests sometimes show increases of certain emissions,
in a majority of cases emissions are reduced 20% to 40% after an
engine break-in period of 1,000 to 1,500 miles (1,609 to 2,414 km).
In general, the results shown in Tables 1-4 are the results of six
tests taken on the above vehicles except that approximately 5% of
the tests results were discarded as anomalous, where the discarded
tests results were more than two standard deviations outside of the
mean results.
[0130] Table 1 shows a summary of mileage test data for a Ford
F-150, Chrysler 300 (Hemi), Infinity G35 and Lincoln Town Car under
urban and highway tests. Each of these vehicles was new when
testing began.
TABLE-US-00001 TABLE 1 Base Case Avg. Urban/ # MPG Model Highway
Tests (km/l) Ford F-150 Truck Urban 6 12.510 (5.319 km/l) Highway 6
17.681 (7.517 km/l) Chrysler 300 (Hemi) Urban 6 16.525 (7.025 km/l)
Highway 6 25.485 (10.835 km/l) Infiniti G35 Urban 6 16.990 (7.223
km/l) Highway 6 27.562 (11.718 km/l) Lincoln Town Car Urban 6
17.309 (7.359 km/l) Highway 6 27.521 (11.700 km/l) Additive Conc.
per Activation Avg. Urban/ Gallon Miles (km) # MPG Abs. % Model
Highway (3.785 l) Driven Tests (km/l) Change Change Ford F-150
Urban 3 ML 1076 6 16.876 4.366 +34.91 Truck (1732 km) (7.175 km/l)
Highway 3 ML 1076 2 17.935 0.254 +1.44 (1732 km) (7.625 km/l) 3 ML
1436 4 20.502 2.821 +16.00 (2311 km) (8.716 km/l) Chrysler Urban 3
ML 1076 2 17.103 0.578 +3.49 300 (Hemi) (1732 km) (7.271 km/l) 3 ML
1436 4 19.025 2.500 +15.12 (2311 km) (8.088 km/l) Highway 3 ML 1076
2 28.148 2.663 +10.45 (1732 km) (11.967 km/l) 3 ML 1436 4 31.563
6.078 +23.85 (2311 km) (13.419 km/l) Infiniti G35 Urban 3 ML 1076 2
18.039 1.049 +6.17 (1732 km) (7.669 km/l) 3 ML 1436 3 19.420 2.430
+14.30 (2311 km) (8.256 km/l) 3 ML 1584 1 20.599 3.609 +21.24 (2549
km) (8.758 km/l) Highway 3 ML 1076 2 22.310 -5.252 -19.03 (1732 km)
(9.485 km/l) 3 ML 1436 3 30.711 3.149 +11.43 (2311 km) (13.057
km/l) 3 ML 1584 1 32.078 4.516 +16.38 (2549 km) (13.638 km/l)
Lincoln Urban 2 ML 1076 6 21.640 4.331 +25.02 Town Car (1732 km)
(9.200 km/l) Highway 2 ML 1076 6 29.372 1.851 +6.73 (1732 km)
(12.487 km/l) 3 ML 1667 3 33.305 5.784 +21.00 (2683 km) (14.159
km/l)
[0131] Analytically, the accumulated data show that just before the
additive has coated the cylinder walls sufficient to begin the
activation process, the mileage performance results for both the
highway and urban tests experience a short-term decline. Emissions
(at different rates) also show a short-term increase at this point.
It is believed the Infiniti engine, having a smaller engine, may
require a longer activation period and so the pre-activation
performance reduction is captured here after the first 1,076 miles
(1,732 km), while it occurs in the case of the other vehicles prior
to the 1,076 miles (1,732 km), activation distance.
[0132] Table 2 shows a summary of emissions test data for the above
vehicles.
TABLE-US-00002 TABLE 2 Ford F-150 Chrysler Hemi 300 Urban % Highway
% Urban % Highway % Change Change Change Change Hydrocarbons Oxide
-12 -56 -11 -52 Carbon Monoxide -32 -28 -36 -48 Oxides of Nitrogen
-9 -36 +66 -42 Carbon Dioxide -28 -14 -13 -19 Infiniti G35 Lincoln
Town Car Urban % Highway % Urban % Highway % Change Change Change
Change Hydrocarbons Oxide -8 -31 +61 -28 Carbon Monoxide -37.5 -42
+112 -21 Oxides of Nitrogen +58 -49 -23 -13 Carbon Dioxide -17 -11
-21 -17
[0133] Emissions for the Lincoln Town Car under urban condition
were only tested at a 2 ML concentration and 1,076 activation miles
(1,732 km). Without the higher concentration of 3 ML used in all
the other tests and the longer activation periods of 1,500 or more
miles (2,414 km), also used in all the other tests, the expected
decline in emissions performance that precedes the activation and
improvement is believed to have been captured in this lower
concentration, lower activation miles urban test. In contrast,
emissions for the Lincoln Town Car under highway conditions were
tested at 1,667 miles (2,683 km) at a 3 ML concentration, with
constant improvement in all categories as a result. Interestingly,
in the urban test, the positive mileage improvement of 25% supports
the conclusion that the decline prior to activation and then
subsequent improvement in mileage and emissions seems to occur at
different rates until both plateau at approximately 1,500 miles
(2,414 km) with 3 ML concentrations.
[0134] With respect to the Infinity G35, as stated above with
respect to the mileage test results, the Infiniti G35 took longer
to activate and a portion of the pre-activation reduction in
emissions performance was evident in the emissions results,
specifically, the urban oxides of nitrogen results.
[0135] With respect to the Chrysler Hemi, it is believed that the
oxides of nitrogen result also may be related to the need for a
longer activation period due to the design of the Hemi engine. It
is also noteworthy that the dual spark plug configuration of the
Hemi produces less NOx and other emissions in the base case.
[0136] Used car mileage test data are as follows:
TABLE-US-00003 TABLE 3 Base Case Avg. Miles Urban/ # MPG Model Year
(km) Highway Tests (km/l) Ford F-150 2005 25,904 Urban 6 11.30
(41,688 km) (4.80 km/l) Highway 6 19.77 (8.41 km/l) Honda 1998
108,000 Urban 6 12.54 Accord V6 (173,809 km) (5.33 km/l) Highway 6
19.75 (8.40 km/l) Ford Crown 1997 120,000 Urban 6 11.33 VIC
(193,121 km) (4.82 km/l) Highway 6 20.83 (8.86 km/l) Honda Civic
1999 170,000 Urban 6 17.90 (273,588 km) (7.61 km/l) Highway 6 31.07
(13.21 km/l) Additive Conc. per Activation Avg. Miles Urban/ Gallon
Miles (km) # MPG Abs. % Model (km) Highway (3.785 l) Driven Tests
(km/l) Change Change Ford F- 25,904 Urban 3 ML 160 2 17.33 6.03
+53.35 150 (41,688 km) (257 km) (7.37 km/l) (2005) 3 ML 320 4 17.28
5.98 +52.94 (515 km) (7.35 km/l) 3 ML 1600 6 18.03 6.73 +59.54
(2575 km) (7.67 km/l) Highway 3 ML 320 6 27.46 7.69 +38.90 (515 km)
(11.67 km/l) 3 ML 960 1 26.00 6.23 +31.51 (1545 km) (11.05 km/l) 3
ML 1600 6 26.41 6.64 +33.57 (2575 km) (11.23 km/l) Honda 108,000
Urban 3 ML 1400 6 16.76 4.22 +33.63 Accord (173,809 km) (2253 km)
(7.13 km/l) V6 Highway 3 ML 1600 6 24.69 4.95 +25.05 (1998) (2575
km) (10.50 km/l) Ford 120,000 Urban 3 ML 160 2 11.75 0.42 +3.73
Crown (193,121 km) (257 km) (5.00 km/l) VIC 3 ML 320 1 13.04 1.71
+15.10 (1997) (515 km) (5.54 km/l) 3 ML 1600 6 13.37 2.04 +18.01
(2575 km) (5.68 km/l) Highway 3 ML 160 2 22.80 1.97 +9.46 (257 km)
(9.69 km/l) 3 ML 1600 1 23.63 2.80 +13.45 (2575 km) (10.05 km/l) 3
ML 1600 6 23.50 2.67 +12.82 (2575 km) (9.99 km/l) Honda 170,000
Urban 3 ML 1400 6 21.69 3.78 +21.14 Civic (273,588 km) (2253 km)
(9.22 km/l) (1999) Highway 3 ML 320 1 32.02 0.95 +3.05 (515 km)
(13.61 km/l) 3 ML 1600 6 36.07 5.00 +16.10 (2575 km) (15.34 km/l) 3
ML 2068 6 36.26 5.19 +16.71 (3328 km) (15.42 km/l)
[0137] Emissions data for the above used vehicles are as
follows:
TABLE-US-00004 TABLE 4 Honda Accord V6 Ford Crown VIC Urban %
Highway % Urban % Highway % Change Change Change Change
Hydrocarbons Oxide -4.8 -19.2 -82.9 +6.7 Carbon Monoxide -24.6
+83.1 -85.1 -24.3 Oxides of Nitrogen +11.1 -32.7 -43.8 -30 Carbon
Dioxide -17.2 -19.9 -14.9 -11.8 Honda Civic Ford F-150 Urban %
Highway % Urban % Highway % Change Change Change Change
Hydrocarbons Oxide -89.9 -53.6 5.5 -46.1 Carbon Monoxide -48.4
+80.3 -83.8 -47.2 Oxides of Nitrogen -65.5 -55.7 +293.9 +112.5
Carbon Dioxide -13.6 -13.4 -34.3 -28.0
[0138] With respect to the above results for the oxides of nitrogen
tests for the 2005 Ford F-150, the substantial increase in the
oxides of nitrogen at the relatively low activation mileage of 320
miles (515 km), further supports the proposition that the catalyst
is initially primarily an oxidation catalyst (during which time
higher levels of oxides of nitrogen may result). At further
activation mileage (such as the 1,436 (2311 km) activation miles
for the new Ford F-150 shown in Tables 1 and 2), the catalyst
becomes an oxidation and reduction catalyst (resulting in an
overall decrease in oxides of nitrogen).
Mechanism of Action of the Inventive Additive
[0139] The following section details the inventors' present
understanding of the mechanism of action of the invention.
[0140] The primary component of the catalytic effect of the
additive of the present invention is palladium which is a
transition metal. The catalytic activity of palladium is described
in Table 5.
TABLE-US-00005 TABLE 5 Principal Additional metal Reaction Pt, Pd,
Ir Au oxidative dehydrogenation of alkanes, n-butene to butadiene,
methanol to formaldehyde, dehydrogenation of alkylcyclohexanes,
isomerization and dehydrogenation of alkylcyclohexanes or
alkylcyclopentanes, hydrogenative cleavage of alkanes, dealkylation
of alkylaromatics Pd Sn, Zn, Pb selective hydrogenation of alkynes
to alkanes (powder form) Pd Ni, Rh, Ag alkane dehydrogenation and
dehydrocyclization
[0141] XPS analysis of the surface of a piston head and spark plugs
from a V-8 Ford truck engine, which had been activated with the
catalyst, revealed a palladium peak at approximately 337 and
silica. FIG. 11 is a portion of an XPS spectrum of an XPS scan of a
piston head of a V-8 Ford truck after being activated by the fuel
additive of the present invention.
[0142] As noted and represented in FIG. 10, the silica colloid of
the invention binds a variety of palladium compounds and allows
them to partition into the kerosene phase during manufacture and
equilibration of the aqueous and organic phase. The kerosene is
then diluted to the proper concentration and an appropriate
concentration is added to the liquid fuel. The fuel is diluted by
the engine to an Air Fuel Ratio (AFR) of approximately 14. This
mixture is taken into the combustion chamber through the intake
valve. The airborne mixture is attracted to the walls of the
chamber. The surface temperatures of 2,000.degree. F. (1093.degree.
C.) to 3,000.degree. F. (1649.degree. C.) converts the colloid into
a thin silica melt which is a base matrix into which the palladium
which exists in various forms, such as palladium ions and oxides,
partitions and evolves into an effective catalytic surface
including on the cylinder wall, piston head and spark plugs as is
revealed in FIG. 10.
[0143] It is generally known that infrared activation of a
combustion process serves a similar function as a surface catalyst.
Therefore if one can increase the amount of infrared absorption by
a fuel mixture more efficient combustion occurs at lower activation
temperatures. Based on infrared spectrographs, it is believed that
the silica colloid of the current invention causes significant
increased absorption of infrared.
[0144] Elemental analysis of the additive of the invention reveals
that all elements which are of interest from a regulatory
standpoint fall below 1 ppm which is believed to satisfy EPA
regulations. Silica is about 20 parts per trillion and palladium is
about 250 parts per trillion in the fuel.
[0145] Although the present invention is discussed in terms of
certain preferred embodiments, the invention is not limited to such
embodiments. Rather, the invention includes other embodiments
including those apparent to a person of ordinary skill in the art.
For example, other systems of agitating the mixtures may be used in
the process of the invention. Thus, the scope of the invention
should not be limited by the preceding description but should be
ascertained by reference to the claims that follow.
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