Sustainable Carbon Management: Minimizing Carbon Contaminants from Exhaust Gases for a Green and Healthy Environment

Sustainable management of carbon-containing pollutants from combustion-based sources remains a critical challenge for urban air quality and public health, particularly in developing regions. This study presents the design and experimental evaluation of a compact, post-combustion electrostatic exhaust treatment device aimed at minimizing carbon-containing contaminants in diesel engine exhaust streams. The system operates by electrostatically capturing particulate-bound carbon species without inducing chemical transformation or in-cylinder combustion modification. Experimental testing on a 418 cc single-cylinder diesel engine demonstrated measurable reductions in particular accumulation, hydrocarbons, and carbon monoxide under steady-state operating conditions, with a total electrical power consumption of approximately 15 - 20 W. Observed variations in measured CO₂ concentrations are attributed to secondary post-combustion effects rather than direct gaseous capture or conversion. In addition to emission mitigation, the study explores a sustainable pathway for post-collection reuse of captured soot, supporting circular material utilization. The results indicate that compact electrostatic systems can contribute to sustainable carbon management by reducing harmful exhaust contaminants while maintaining low auxiliary energy demand and field adaptability.