Influences of various metal oxide-based nanosized particles-added algae biodiesel on engine characteristics

Abstract

Nano fuel technology is widely used to enhance fuel capability to improve combustion, performance and emission behaviors of the engines. On the other hand, biodiesel is the best alternative to the conventional fossil fuels. However, it may worsen the engine characteristics, and should be modified. In this framework, this investigation aims to improve algae oil biodiesel by employing nano fuel technology by mixing metallic oxide nanoparticles like CeO2, SiO2 and TiO2 with a concentration of 150 mg/lit. The base fuel B25 blends consist of Algae oil-based biodiesel 25 vol% and 75 vol% of diesel. The B25 blends and 150 mg/lit concentration of nanoparticles were preferred through basic experimentation. An ultrasonicator was employed in the preparation of nano fuels such as B25CeO2, B25SiO2, and B25TiO2. The prepared Nano fuels were characterized and tested in a diesel engine at varying engine speeds ranging from 1250 rpm to 2500 rpm with the step of 250 rpm. The results revealed that the use of B25TiO2 recorded the maximum engine cylinder pressure at 72.2 bar was recorded at the 5O crank angle and maximum heat release rate of 63.2 J/OCA. The maximum speed of the engine leads to higher BTE. In comparison to that of conventional diesel fuel, the use of the B25+TiO2 blend increased in-cylinder pressure by 23.4%, heat release rate by 16.6%, BTE by 32.4%, CO2 by 65.09%, and decreased BSFC by 25.62%, CO by 33.4%, NOx by 68.3%, UHC by 22.75%, and smoke opacity by 30.99%. Hence, this investigation found a novel blend of B25TiO2 for lowering emissions and improving diesel engine performance.