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This paper describes the durability of the filtration layer integrated into Diesel Particulate Filters (DPFs) that we have developed to ensure low pressure loss and high filtration efficiency performances which also meet emission regulations. DPF samples were evaluated in regards to their performance deterioration which is brought about by ash loading and uncontrolled regeneration cycles, respectively. Ash was synthesized by using a diesel fuel/lubrication oil mixture and was trapped up to a level which corresponded to a 240,000km run, into the DPFs both with and without the filtration layer. Afterwards, aged-DPFs were measured with respect to their permeability, pressure loss, filtration efficiency, as well as soot oxidation speed using suitable analytical methods. Consequently, it has been confirmed that there was no noteworthy deterioration of the performances in the DPF with the filtration layer.

Upcoming (2005) particulate matter standards for diesel powered vehicles are likely to require the deployment of aftertreatment devices, such as particulate filters to ensure emissions compliance. A major challenge in the development of diesel filter systems has been the achievement of filter regeneration by the oxidation of the collected particulate matter in a reliable and cost-effective manner. Recently the emergence of the so-called continuously regenerating trap (CRT™) in conjunction with the future availability of very low-sulphur diesel fuel, represents a promising solution to the diesel particulate control problem. In the present study, design and selection criteria are devised, regarding the sizing of wall flow diesel particulate filters for application in CRT™ systems, employing a range of analytical and 3-D CFD tools validated against experimental data.