Energy Sources, Part A: Recovery, Utilization and Environmental Effects, cilt.47, sa.2, 2025 (SCI-Expanded)
In this study, the synthesis, characterization, and performance evaluation of an Ir–In/CeO₂ bimetallic catalyst for diesel engine emission control were conducted. The catalyst was synthesized via a sol–gel method and applied as a washcoat on a cordierite monolith. Characterization revealed a high BET surface area (~120 m2/g) and well-dispersed nanoparticles averaging 6–12 nm in size. XRD patterns confirmed crystallized CeO₂ with slight peak shifts, indicating successful incorporation of Ir and In into the lattice. XPS analysis identified Ce4+/Ce3+, Ir4+, and In3+ states, highlighting strong metal-support interactions and the generation of surface oxygen vacancies. Temperature-programmed reduction (TPR) revealed a two-step profile: a sharp low-temperature peak from reducible surface species and a broader high-temperature peak linked to bulk ceria reduction. Engine testing was performed under loads from 0% to 100%, and under full-load conditions, the Ir–In/CeO₂ catalyst achieved CO emission reductions of up to 90% and HC reductions of 80–90%. Partial NO oxidation to NO₂ reached 40–50% conversion at higher loads, supporting its compatibility with downstream NOₓ control systems. The catalyst showed excellent thermal durability and consistent conversion performance during prolonged testing, demonstrating strong stability under real-world exhaust conditions. These results confirm that the Ir–In/CeO₂ catalyst effectively mitigates diesel pollutants across a broad load range and offers a viable strategy for advanced emission control in compression ignition engines.