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VOL. 1, ISSUE 1 (2025)
Investigation of Biodiesel impact on performance characteristics of a conventional diesel engine
Authors
Mohammed H Alkaaby
Abstract
The increasing global demand for sustainable energy alternatives has intensified research into biodiesel as a viable substitute for conventional diesel fuel. This comprehensive study investigates the impact of various biodiesel blends on the performance characteristics of a conventional diesel engine. The research employed a single-cylinder, four-stroke, direct injection diesel engine to evaluate the effects of different biodiesel concentrations (B10, B20, B30, B50, and B100) derived from waste cooking oil on engine performance parameters including brake thermal efficiency, brake specific fuel consumption, exhaust gas temperature, and emission characteristics. The experimental investigation was conducted under varying load conditions ranging from no-load to full-load operations at constant engine speed. Results demonstrate that biodiesel blends up to B20 exhibit comparable performance characteristics to conventional diesel fuel, with brake thermal efficiency showing marginal improvements of 2-4% compared to pure diesel. However, higher biodiesel concentrations (B50 and B100) resulted in decreased brake thermal efficiency by 6-12% and increased brake specific fuel consumption by 8-15% due to lower calorific value and higher density of biodiesel. Emission analysis revealed significant reductions in carbon monoxide (15-35%), unburned hydrocarbons (20-40%), and particulate matter (25-45%) emissions, while nitrogen oxide emissions increased by 8-18% with higher biodiesel concentrations. The study concludes that B20 biodiesel blend represents the optimal compromise between engine performance and environmental benefits, making it a promising alternative fuel for existing diesel engines without requiring significant engine modifications.
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Pages:12-19
How to cite this article:
Mohammed H Alkaaby "Investigation of Biodiesel impact on performance characteristics of a conventional diesel engine". World Journal of Engineering and Technology, Vol 1, Issue 1, 2025, Pages 12-19
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