Impact of RON on a heavily downsized boosted SI engine using 2nd generation biofuel – A comprehensive experimental analysis

Abstract

Sustainable energy solutions are paramount in the urgent global drive against climate change, especially in transportation. This research focuses on second-generation biogasolines and their potential in the context of decarbonisation. Two biogasolines, 99 RON E20 and 95 RON E20, were rigorously tested in a downsized single-cylinder engine. Their performance, combustion, and emissions were compared against the conventional fossil fuel, 95 RON E10, under varying engine loads. Additionally, a comprehensive injection parameter sweep was conducted for both biofuels at low and high loads, shedding light on their unique operational characteristics and operational regimes. This research significantly enhances our knowledge about the potential of these new biofuels and their implications for a more sustainable energy future. The findings of the experiments demonstrate no substantial difference between the tested biofuels and fossil fuels. Biofuel with a higher octane number provides more knock resistance than fossil fuel, resulting in increased thermal efficiency due to spark advance ability. However, more significant hydrocarbon emissions were detected for biofuels than fossil fuels due to more extensive aromatic content. Both biofuels have stable combustion in low and high-load operations under varying injection pressures and injection start times. 99 Bio E20 has a wider operational range than 95 Bio E20. However, due to very high HC emissions, especially at high-load operations, an early injection start with more significant injection pressure is not recommended for biofuel. From a broader perspective, both biofuels exhibit the promising potential to serve as drop-in replacements in spark ignition engines.