Characterization of biodiesel blends produced from repurpose used cooking oil

Abstract

Characterising the fuel before it is used in an engine is necessary for a healthy fuel supply for an engine, just as a clean environment is necessary for a healthy life. Used cooking oil (UCO), a third-generation feedstock, is investigated for its physicochemical properties. To ascertain the blend's suitability as an alternative fuel, characterisation was conducted using GC-MS, thermogravimetric, infrared spectroscopy and element analysis. To enhance the characteristics the oxygenated additive (diethyl ether: DEE) was added at higher proportions. In accordance with Indian requirements, the impact of DEE on the physicochemical characteristics of biodiesel blends was examined (IS1448). Oleic acid keeps RUCO-B's fuel mixture well in terms of viscosity, ignition quality and oxidative stability. Sulphur-free technology on the RUCO-B eliminates sulphur oxide emissions automatically. The physical (density and viscosity), chemical (cetane number and calorific value) and cold flow (flash point, pour point and cloud point) characteristics of ternary blends were all enhanced by the addition of DEE. According to ASTM D975, the blend's 4% DEE surpasses the standard's acid value by 36%, potentially causing engine damage. In ternary blends, the DEE proportion (0.8, 1.6, 2.4 and 3.2%) enhances the cold flow, chemical and physical qualities.