What type of emissions does the EVAP system capture for later burning?

The EVAP (Evaporative Emission Control) system is designed to capture and store fuel vapors from the fuel tank and the fuel delivery system, primarily hydrocarbons. The process helps to prevent the release of these harmful compounds into the atmosphere, which can contribute to air pollution and smog formation.

Hydrocarbons are organic compounds composed of hydrogen and carbon and are found in gasoline and other fuels. When absorbed by the EVAP system, these vapors are directed back into the engine for combustion, reducing emissions that would otherwise escape into the environment. The burning of these hydrocarbons in the combustion process helps to minimize their impact on air quality.

In contrast, carbon dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and ozone are different types of emissions that are not directly captured and stored by the EVAP system. Carbon dioxide is a byproduct of the combustion process itself. Nitrogen oxides are produced during high-temperature combustion but are managed by other engine control systems. Ozone, while an important component in air quality discussions, is primarily formed through reactions involving volatile organic compounds (VOCs), including unburned hydrocarbons, but is not captured by the EVAP system.