Laser technology used at ignition could improve fuel efficiency

Wed 15 July 2009 View all news

Liverpool Univesity engineers say that cutting-edge laser technology could be used in car ignition systems to cut emissions and fuel use. The Liverpool researchers are being backed by Ford and have recently received a £200,000 research grant from the Carbon Trust.

The project is focused on replacing traditional spark ignition with a laser ignition that researchers claim is capable of ensuring ignition takes place in the most efficient part of the fuel chamber.

The project leader Dr Tom Shenton (reported by Business Green - see link) said that the new approach had the potential to combine the performance and lightweight design of a petrol engine with the fuel efficiency of a diesel engine.

"The control you get with a laser beam will enable much better use of gasoline direct injection systems where the fuel is only injected once the air is pressurised," he explained. While it is too early to estimate potential carbon savings, the technology had the potential to deliver significantly improved fuel economy and reductions in both carbon and NOX emissions. However, Dr Shenton warned that it is likely to be several years before the technology becomes commercially viable.

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