IDENTIFICATION OF BLOCKAGES IN CATALYTIC CONVERTER OF THE SEDAN PRIVATE CAR/TAXI AFTER 180,000 KM OF SERVICE

• Main Author: Susana
• Format: Theses
• Language: Indonesia
• Online Access: https://digilib.itb.ac.id/gdl/view/62830
• Institution: Institut Teknologi Bandung

The engine power of a 2013 taxi sedan with an approximate mileage of 180.000 km decreased. Several blockages covering the channel on the substrate in front of the catalytic converter were found. This research was conducted to identify the material that clogs the catalytic converter and analyze the possible causes of the blockage. Verification of the cordierite ceramic substrate 2MgO.2Al2O3.5SiO) was carried out using X-ray diffraction (XRD). The morphology and composition of the blockage elements, cross-section of cordierite, and washcoat were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS). EDS characterizations test of 10 plugs showed that the main elements of the plugs were Mg, Al, and Si, which probably came from cordierite and washcoat that fell off due to mechanical phenomena. Phosphorus and calcium were also found in the blockage and possibly came from the engine oil. The phosphorus, calcium, sulfur and lead compositions on the washcoat surface was also characterized by EDS at several locations from the inlet.