Why is fuel sulfur content important?
During the combustion process inside a diesel engine, sulfur in the fuel is oxidized into SO2. Further oxidation of SO2 to SO3 can take place over a catalyst in the exhaust stream. The SO3 combines with water to form sulfuric acid which is considered a particulate. Minimizing the oxidation of SO2 can be achieved by using the right catalyst or by reducing sulfur levels in the fuel, (using ultra-low sulfur diesel). Successful regeneration occurs at lower exhaust temperatures when the sulfur content of fuel is decreased.
