REVEAL - Remote Measurement of Vehicle Emissions at Low Cost
Overview
Background & policy context:
Gaseous emissions from motor vehicles such as carbon monoxide (CO), carbon dioxide (CO2), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and unburned or partially burned hydrocarbons (CH) have significant detrimental effects on air quality especially in urban areas. Studies have linked poor air quality with a rise in respiratory diseases and other health problems. A number of approaches are being used to curb vehicle emissions, primarily by reducing vehicle usage and by the introduction of improved engines. To assess the effect of these emission reduction measures, it is necessary to have base-line measurements of real-world vehicle emissions, that is from in-service vehicles under normal operation.
Objectives:
- Identification of appropriate spectroscopic/measurement and data handling approaches for emissions measurement in a range of user-driven applications for remote sensing
- Provision of theoretical foundations for the remote optical measurement of emissions in order to obtain a predictive understand of the limits of performance of such devices
- Design, Construction and testing of prototype instruments taking into account the requirements for low-cost solutions
- Demonstration of proof of concept of the selected measurement strategies for the identified applications
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Validation of performance of the instrumentation and determination of best practice in making emissions measurements
Methodology:
The project has produced measurement protocols, comparative studies of different instruments, and validated emissions data. European studies of emissions measurements linked to parameters such as vehicle type, age and driving condition have been undertaken and are available for the use of both policy makers and researchers. The prospects for remote sensing instruments providing public information have also been investigated, with the aim of reinforcing individual motorist responsibility for their vehicle emissions.
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