Mitigating Environmental Impact: A Study on the Performance and Emissions of a Diesel Engine Fueled with Biodiesel Blend

This research delves into the operational performance and environmental impact of a single-cylinder diesel engine fueled with a 15 % blend of Nahar biodiesel (B15), derived from non-edible oil sources. The study scrutinizes critical engine parameters such as brake thermal efficiency, specific fuel consumption, exhaust gas temperature, and emissions of harmful pollutants like carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons, nitrogen oxides, and particulate matter (smoke opacity). Experimental results indicate that while the B15 blend exhibited a minor reduction in thermal efficiency at higher engine loads compared to conventional diesel, it demonstrated substantial improvements in emission reduction. The blend significantly lowered emissions of CO, HC, NOx, and smoke, contributing to a cleaner and healthier environment. Additionally, the combustion process was optimized, as evidenced by a shortened ignition delay, leading to more efficient fuel combustion. In conclusion, the research establishes the viability and sustainability of the Nahar biodiesel blend B15 as a promising alternative to conventional diesel fuel. Its ability to significantly reduce emissions without compromising engine performance to a significant degree underscores its potential to contribute to greener energy solutions and mitigate environmental impact. The findings suggest that B15 biodiesel can play a crucial role in advancing sustainable energy initiatives while ensuring acceptable engine efficiency levels. Major Findings: Biodiesel blends demonstrate higher Brake Thermal Efficiency (BTE) at low to mid loads, but their performance declines at high loads due to increased fuel consumption. The Brake Specific Fuel Consumption (BSFC) of biodiesel (B15) remains consistently higher than diesel, driven by its lower calorific value and higher viscosity. Despite these drawbacks, biodiesel offers significant environmental advantages, including lower exhaust gas temperatures (6-9 °C cooler) and reduced emissions of CO, HC, and NOx, attributed to its superior combustion efficiency and higher oxygen content. Additionally, biodiesel exhibits quicker ignition with shorter delays compared to diesel, enhancing atomization and combustion quality, which positions it as a promising cleaner alternative to conventional diesel fuel.