Autoignition behavior of a full boiling-range gasoline: Observations in RCM and GCI engine environments

The understanding of, and capability to modulate fuel autoignition behavior are important aspects towards the development of advanced, low temperature combustion (LTC) engine concepts, which have potential to significantly increase engine efficiency while at the same time addressing emissions concerns. Proper combustion phasing and control of heat release rates via, for instance, multiple injections and exhaust gas recirculation, are significant challenges that can vary with fuel composition. Overall reactivity, which is a strong function of the in-cylinder temperature and pressure, is a prime driver for regulating combustion timing, while preliminary exothermicity, in the form of low- and intermediate-temperature heat release (LTHR, ITHR) can inhibit, or facilitate operational success, e.g., control combustion phasing. There are still gaps in understanding these features and how they interact with needs of advanced combustion engines, and how practical fuels can be rated for the new challenges of LTC engines.