Multi scale CFD modelling of reactive flows inside open cell foams for after treatment systems of internal combustion engines

Within the context of reducing the pollutant emissions of internal combustion engines, this research project aims at the development of CFD models for the simulation of the physical and chemical phenomena occurring in open cell foams for the after treatment system of ICE. In particular, the finite volume open-source CFD code OpenFOAM\textsuperscript\textregistered is applied. Different approaches, characterised by an increasing level of detail and computational effort, are considered. The most accurate approach is based on a micro-scale analysis of a sample and provides a complete characterisation analysing those parameters that mostly influence the fluid-dynamical, thermal and chemical behaviour of an open-cell foam. Moreover, because of its important computational effort, the detailed approach is exploited as a support tool for the development of macro-scale numerical models. This up-scaling process has required the implementation of a specific library for the modelling of macro-chemistry. The model is tested and its results are discussed and compared to the ones provided by micro-simulations.