Real-Time Combustion Chamber Pressure Measurement Using an In-Cylinder Pressure Sensor Spark Plug for Enhanced Fuel Efficiency and Reduced Greenhouse Gas Emissions
Faculty Mentor
Valentin Soloiu
Location
Russell Union Ballroom
Type of Research
On-going
Session Format
Poster Presentation
College
Allen E. Paulson College of Engineering & Computing
Department
Mechanical Engineering
Abstract
Carbon-emitting petroleum combustion in the transportation sector is a significant contributor to global warming. As the largest consumer of petroleum, Internal Combustion Engines (ICE) must be studied for their fuel combustion efficiency as it directly correlates to ICE greenhouse gas emissions.
In-Cylinder Pressure Sensors (ICPS) acquire combustion chamber pressure data from ICEs from which Apparent Heat Release Rate (AHRR) can be calculated. AHRR characterizes combustion by quantifying at what time, how fast, and how much energy is released. Any deviations from the stoichiometric rate can signify abnormal combustion resulting in higher fuel consumption and therefore higher emissions. AHRR serves as a diagnostic metric that supports engine tuning strategies aimed at improving fuel efficiency.
This pressure data can also be used to calculate Gross Indicated Mean Effective Pressure (GIMEP). GIMEP quantifies how much work the engine is producing and therefore mechanical loss can be derived based on the amount of work at the crankshaft. The GIMEP diagnoses areas of excess stress and friction which, when addressed, lead to higher fuel efficiency.
Therefore, a piezoelectric pressure sensor was implemented to a benchtop Briggs and Stratton Hybrid Electric Powertrain to measure real-time combustion chamber pressures.
Program Description
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Start Date
4-23-2026 2:00 PM
End Date
4-23-2026 4:00 PM
Recommended Citation
Rash, Landon GK, "Real-Time Combustion Chamber Pressure Measurement Using an In-Cylinder Pressure Sensor Spark Plug for Enhanced Fuel Efficiency and Reduced Greenhouse Gas Emissions" (2026). GS4 Student Scholars Symposium. 189.
https://digitalcommons.georgiasouthern.edu/research_symposium/2026/2026/189
Real-Time Combustion Chamber Pressure Measurement Using an In-Cylinder Pressure Sensor Spark Plug for Enhanced Fuel Efficiency and Reduced Greenhouse Gas Emissions
Russell Union Ballroom
Carbon-emitting petroleum combustion in the transportation sector is a significant contributor to global warming. As the largest consumer of petroleum, Internal Combustion Engines (ICE) must be studied for their fuel combustion efficiency as it directly correlates to ICE greenhouse gas emissions.
In-Cylinder Pressure Sensors (ICPS) acquire combustion chamber pressure data from ICEs from which Apparent Heat Release Rate (AHRR) can be calculated. AHRR characterizes combustion by quantifying at what time, how fast, and how much energy is released. Any deviations from the stoichiometric rate can signify abnormal combustion resulting in higher fuel consumption and therefore higher emissions. AHRR serves as a diagnostic metric that supports engine tuning strategies aimed at improving fuel efficiency.
This pressure data can also be used to calculate Gross Indicated Mean Effective Pressure (GIMEP). GIMEP quantifies how much work the engine is producing and therefore mechanical loss can be derived based on the amount of work at the crankshaft. The GIMEP diagnoses areas of excess stress and friction which, when addressed, lead to higher fuel efficiency.
Therefore, a piezoelectric pressure sensor was implemented to a benchtop Briggs and Stratton Hybrid Electric Powertrain to measure real-time combustion chamber pressures.
