Evolution of unburnt hydrocarbons under "cold-start" conditions from adsorption/desorption to conversion: On the screening of zeolitic materials

•Selected zeolites were studied under representative cold-start diesel conditions.•The acidity of zeolites increases the efficiency of HC trapping and NOx conversion.•Large pores and/or hydrophobic zeolites are more selective for decane adsorption.•Pt- and Cu loaded zeolites are the most efficient in oxidizing the HC above 250°C.•HZSM-5 and Cu/Y zeolites are promising materials for cold-start application.