Despite Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) concerns that the copper zeolite it intends to use in its 2010 engines could produce carcinogenic dioxins, Cummins said it has complete confidence that EPA will see after further testing that copper zeolite is a safe and effective solution for meeting 2010 emissions regulations.

Cummins first announced it would use copper zeolite to meet the EPA regulations in August, saying that it was an efficient way of reducing oxides of nitrogen (NOx). However, EPA sent a letter to U.S. engine manufacturers last month questioning its use, noting “copper has the potential to catalyze dioxin formation in conditions experienced in incinerators and in diesel exhaust,” which could lead the agency to withhold certification for engines that utilize copper zeolite.

However, Tina Vujovich, vp of marketing and environmental policy for Cummins, told FleetOwner that the company plans to sit down with EPA before the end of the month to talk about the agency’s findings in subsequent testing of copper zeolite.

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