Effect of Bio-additive Derived from Essential Oils on Particulate Matter and Water Content of B30 (30% of Biodiesel Blended Fuel)

Abstract

Indonesia is one of the most biodiesel producers globally, with a total production capacity of around 12 million kL in 2020. Recently, Indonesia has been implementing a mandatory biodiesel program with at least 30% (B30). However, the utilization of B30 still has challenges faced regarding carbon deposition and water content. Therefore, this study aims to determine the effect of bio-additive from essential oil to reduce the particulate as well as the water content of B30. A single essential oil of clove terpene, rhodinol, and turpentine oil, as well as their mixtures, were used in this study. A concentration of 0.5% was used for a single essential oil of clove terpene, rhodinol, and turpentine oil. Meanwhile, the concentrations of clove terpene, rhodinol, and turpentine oil mixtures were 1: 1: 8 (BA1); 0.33: 0.67: 8 (BA2); 0.5: 1.5: 8 (BA3). For the case of single essential oil, the largest reduction in the particulate matter as much as 38.26, 62.85, and 91.11% was found by adding 0.5% clove terpene at 4, 6, and 14-μm filtration, respectively. Furthermore, the best reduction in water content was observed with the addition of turpentine, reducing the water content of B30 from 312 to 282 ppm.