Prediction-optimization of the influence of 1-pentanol/jatropha oil blends on RCCI engine characteristics using multi-objective response surface methodology

Abstract

Despite their higher viscosity and longer ignition delay, alternative fuels like biodiesel can be used instead of fossil fuels. This study investigated the potential of the 1-pentanol (10, 20, and 30%) as the low reactivity fuel, which is a cetane value improver, and jatropha oil blended with diesel is considered the high reactivity fuel. 1-Pentanol was found to affect emission and combustion properties. Response surface methodology is adopted to forecast the operating parameters such as injection timing (23, 25, and 27° bTDC) and engine load (50, 75, and 100%). This ideal model is used to obtain engine characteristics for different fuel blends. The model's robustness was demonstrated because Theil's uncertainty in its predictive abilities was less than 0.1189(Theil's U2). With a mean absolute percentage error of less than 1.18%, Nash-Sutcliffe efficiency was outstanding (0.9885–0.9995). With the help of results obtained from experiments, various models were developed and validated. The ideal engine parameters found were 73% of engine load, PES of 24%, and FIT of 24.9° bTDC (advanced), and under this configuration, better engine characteristics are achieved. Also, ANOVA, a statistically valid test, is used to develop a regression model. The regression model is adequate for the following R2 values obtained, according to the test results: BTE: 99.57%, BSFC: 98.86%, Pmax: 98.83%, NOx: 98.22%, HC: 99.70% and CO: 98.38% respectively.