Abstract
This paper reports the performance of a spark ignition engine using gasoline blended with an upgraded bio-oil rich in aromatics and ethanol. This upgraded bio-oil was obtained using a two-step catalytic process. The first step comprised an in-situ catalytic pyrolysis process with CaO in order to obtain a more stable deoxygenated organic fraction, while the second consisted of a catalytic cracking of the vapours released using ZSM-5 zeolites to obtain an aromatics-rich fraction. To facilitate the mixture between bio-oil and gasoline, ethanol was added. The behaviour of a stationary spark ignition engine G12TFH (9600 W) was described in terms of fuel consumption and electrical efficiency. In addition, gaseous emissions and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) concentrations were determined. Trial tests suggested that it is possible to work with a blend of gasoline, ethanol and bio-oil (90/8/2 vol%, herein named G90E8B2) showing similar fuel consumption than pure gasoline (G100) at the same load. Moreover, combustion could be considered more efficient when small quantities of ethanol and organic bio-oil are simultaneously added. A reduction, not only in the PAH concentrations but also in the carcinogenic equivalent concentrations, was also obtained, decreasing the environmental impact of the exhaust gases. Thus, results show that it is technically feasible to use low blends of aroma-rich bio-oil, ethanol and gasoline in conventional spark ignition engines.
Highlights
Biomass pyrolysis produces solid, gas and liquid fractions
More details about the catalytic cracking process and chemical characterisation of bio-oil can be found in previous research articles [23,24,25,26,27]
Common pyrolysis oil presents poor ignition properties, complicating its use polar nature that avoids a complete blending with commercial hydrocarbons
Summary
The first one, known as biochar, has several uses as a fuel, in soil remediation and even as a precursor of activated carbon, among others [1,2]. Both gases and liquids are potentially renewable fuels and they can be used directly or mixed with traditional fuels in conventional internal combustion engines [3]. Pyrolysis gas can be used in energy generation, either in spark ignition or compression ignition engines Combustion parameters such as calorific value, flame velocity and ignition energy are key parameters regarding the feasibility of using such a low grade gaseous fuel [4]. Upgrading processes must be carried out to incorporate this product into existing infrastructure or to be used directly as drop-in fuel
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