Performance assessment of multiple biodiesel blended diesel engine and NOx modeling using ANN

Abstract

This paper discusses the effect of dual blends of multiple biodiesels on characteristics of DICI engine in conjunction with NOx modeling using ANN. Six sets of dual biodiesel/diesel blends are prepared on a volume basis (10% and 90%) by using four different biodiesels such as Jatropha, Karanja, Mahua, and Neem. The experimentations are performed on a single-cylinder VCR engine with full throttle condition and constant compression ratio (CR) of 17.5:1. The physicochemical and thermal properties are analysed to assess the suitability and compatibility of biodiesel as an alternative fuel. The physicochemical properties are found within the permissible limits as prescribed by ASTM. Mass loss study and functional groups are analysed through TGA and FTIR analysis and maximum weight loss is observed in pyrolytic zone (Zone-II). Reduction in performance characteristics of BTE, AFRηMech., ηVol. varies from −0.77% to −5.60%. Variations are observed in BSEC (8.91%) and EGT (11.95%). Combustion characteristics (CP, MGT, MFB, NHR, and RPR) of biodiesel blends are similar to neat diesel. Overall reduction in CO (34.05%) and increment in CO2 (42.54%) are observed for all the blends at the penalty of HC and NOx. An attempt has been made to predict NOx emission through physicochemical properties.