Date of Award

8-1976

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Abstract

The purpose of this study was threefold: (1) to descriptively recount the development of emission control systems for internal combustion gasoline engines from the positive crankcase ventilating valve of 1962 to the catalytic converter of 1975, (2) to assess the documented effectiveness of each device in relation to its intended purpose, and ( 3) to develop a conceptual structure for the study of emission control devices in trade and industrial education.

A review of literature was conducted from textbooks, manufacturers, and Environmental Protection Agency sources. The data gathered and analyzed was presented in figurative form accompanied by narrative summaries.

Conclusions drawn from the findings were that: (1) emissions standards for hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide, and nitrogen oxides have been established through model year 1978; (2) no standards had been established for sulfates at the time this study was conducted; (3) emission problems are interrelated; (4) tampering of emissions controls may result in stringent fines and warranty nullification; (S) emissions systems being used at the time the study was conducted were effective in relation to the intended purpose; (6) since 1962 emissions have been reduced by approximately 80 per cent; (7) nitrogen oxides are the most harmful of the pollutants, and the most difficult to control; (8) catalytic equipped cars emit greater amounts of sulfates than non catalytic cars; (9) alternative power plants may not be available until the 1990's; (10) most automotive textbooks are not complete in the treatment of the emissions control subject.

A conceptual teaching structure for trade and industrial auto mechanics was developed. The teaching structure provides a suggested taxonomic guide for instruction, that can be integrated into existing programs of study at times when engine components and the emission controlling system will be correlated.

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