Cold-start emissions refer to the pollutants released during the initial moments of an engine's operation, particularly when it is started from a cold state. These emissions are significantly higher than during normal operation due to incomplete combustion and the time it takes for the engine and catalytic converter to reach optimal operating temperatures. Understanding cold-start emissions is crucial for evaluating the environmental impact of low-temperature combustion engines, as they often struggle with efficiency and clean combustion during this phase.
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