Controlling Lubricant Derived Phosphorous Deactivation of the Three Way Catalysts Part 1: Assessments of Various Testing Methodologies 2010-01-1544

Prior work by various OEMs has identified the ability of phosphorus-containing compounds to interfere with the efficiency of modern emissions control systems utilized by gasoline-powered vehicles. Considering the growing societal concerns about ecological effects of exhaust emissions, greenhouse gas emissions and related global climatic changes, it becomes desirable to examine the effect of reduced phosphorous (P) deposits in various vehicle makes, models and types of service, over the lifetime of a vehicle's operation.

This paper assesses advantages and disadvantages of various methods to examine the path of P transfer throughout exhaust catalytic systems. Test types discussed include examples of bench testing focusing on catalyst compatibility, dyno mileage accumulation and field trial examinations. Results reveal testing challenges encountered with various tests, show measureable differences among oils in phosphorus retention and underscore the beneficial impact of reduced phosphorus exposure on extending catalysts' life and their overall efficiency.