Warju, Arya Mahendra Sakti, Diah Wulandari, Firman Yasa Utama, Andita Nataria Fitri Ganda, Sudirman Rizki Ariyanto, Muhammad Yandi Pratama, Suprayitno, Kusuma Refa Haratama
Catalytic converters are essential for reducing vehicle emissions, which contribute significantly to air pollution and public health issues. Due to the high cost and scarcity of precious metals used in traditional catalytic converters, research has shifted towards alternative materials such as transition metals. This study aims to optimize the design parameters of nickel-coated brass catalytic converters for carbon monoxide (CO) emission reduction using genetic algorithms (GA). The objective is to maximize the signal-to-noise (S/N) ratio with a "smaller the better" (STB) approach to ensure both effective emission reduction and minimal sensitivity to engine speed variations. Experimental measurements were conducted using a central composite design (CCD) to develop a second-order polynomial regression model, which GA utilized for fitness functions. The results show that the optimal design is capable of reducing CO emissions by 3% compared to a standard vehicle, with an S/N ratio of 3.09 (better than the standard value of 2.06). This finding is explained by the nickel layer’s ability to maintain catalytic activity under various operating conditions, while the brass structure provides the required durability. For practical applications, this catalytic converter is suitable for use in gasoline-fueled vehicles in urban areas with high pollution levels. This design offers an affordable solution for developing countries that require emission reduction technology but are constrained by costs. Its implementation is relatively easy because it is compatible with existing exhaust systems, although regular replacement every 80,000 km is recommended to maintain effectiveness. © The Author(s) 2026.
Universitas Negeri Surabaya, Prof. Moch Yamin str., Ketintang, Kec. Gayungan, Jawa Timur, Surabaya, 60231, Indonesia; Universitas Negeri Malang, 5 Semarang str., Sumbersari, Kec. Lowokwaru, Kota Malang, Jawa Timur, Malang, 65145, Indonesia
