The need for greater energy efficiency and lower emissions drives the use of advanced combustion concepts that tend to reduce ignition efficiency. To address this challenge, Argonne researchers work with industrial partners to develop and evaluate advanced technologies that offer superior and reliable ignition performance. These technologies primarily target reciprocating engine systems for vehicles and stationary engines. For economic reasons, these new technologies are likely to show up first in stationary natural gas engines.

The goals of these efforts are the development of ignition systems that—while being cost-competitive and reliable—also offer improved performance. Researchers look for the ability to ignite dilute fuel-air mixtures, reliable ignition under highly boosted conditions, and accelerated combustion rates. Improved ignition translates into higher engine efficiency and lower emissions leading to fuel savings for operators and reduced greenhouse gas emissions.

The Argonne team employs advanced engine test facilities, diagnostic equipment, and computational hardware to model ignition phenomena in engines. Collaborations with universities, industry, and research institutions complement Argonne’s expertise in this area.