What are the main harmful components in diesel engine emissions?
3 Answers
The main harmful components in diesel engine emissions are nitrogen oxides and particulate matter. It is often observed that some diesel-powered vehicles emit large amounts of black smoke from the exhaust pipe during acceleration. These black substances are carbon particles, which are harmful to human health and also contribute to environmental pollution. Most domestic passenger cars or SUVs in China use gasoline engines, while only certain vehicles like tractors and trucks utilize diesel engines. The working principle of diesel engines differs somewhat from gasoline engines. A four-stroke gasoline engine has a power stroke where the spark plug ignites the combustible mixture in the combustion chamber at the end of the compression stroke, causing the mixture to burn. The burning mixture then pushes the piston downward, enabling the engine to perform work.
Diesel engines emit quite a few harmful substances. Having driven trucks for over 20 years, I often smell that pungent odor. The main harmful components include particulate matter, commonly known as black smoke—these tiny particles float in the air and can cause coughing or asthma when inhaled. Then there are nitrogen oxides, which contribute to acid fog, pollute the environment, and harm trees and buildings. Carbon monoxide is also an invisible killer—colorless and odorless, but excessive inhalation can cause dizziness or even suffocation. Additionally, hydrocarbons participate in forming chemical smog, worsening air quality; sometimes, during long drives, eye irritation is caused by them. There are also sulfur oxides, which come from fuel impurities, emitting foul odors and corroding metals. That’s why many truck owners now regularly check their engines and filtration systems to reduce these effects—after all, high emissions aren’t good for health. I recommend choosing low-sulfur diesel, maintaining vehicle upkeep, and minimizing these toxins as much as possible.
From a health perspective regarding diesel emissions, my biggest concerns are those common harmful substances. Particulate matter is the most detestable—it infiltrates the respiratory tract like fine dust, triggering lung issues or worsening asthma, posing particular risks to children and the elderly. Nitrogen oxides irritate the throat and eyes and can transform into acid rain, damaging ecosystems. Carbon monoxide is the most insidious, silently reducing oxygen intake, leading to dizziness, nausea, or even fainting, especially dangerous when idling in garages. Hydrocarbons also cannot be ignored—they make the air smell foul, exacerbate atmospheric pollution, and affect skin health. Additionally, prolonged exposure to sulfur oxides may trigger allergic reactions. Therefore, I always ensure proper ventilation during daily driving and avoid prolonged idling to minimize these emissions. I also remind everyone to pay attention to changes in exhaust color as an early warning for health risks.
