Advancements in Green Fuel Technologies: The Synergistic Effect of Jatropha Biodiesel and Carbon Nanotubes on Diesel Engine Performance and Emissions

This experimental study investigates the impact of biodiesel derived from Jatropha oil and multiwalled carbon nanotubes (CNTs) on the performance and emissions of a diesel engine. The analysis involved five fuel conditions: pure diesel (D), diesel blended with 50% biodiesel (DB50), diesel blended with 80% biodiesel (DB80), diesel blended with 50% biodiesel and CNTs (DB50C), and diesel blended with 80% biodiesel and CNTs (DB80C). The results indicate that biodiesel blends, particularly those enhanced with CNTs, significantly improve fuel efficiency and engine performance. Blends with additives (DB50C and DB80C) exhibited higher brake power (BP) and lower brake‐specific fuel consumption (BSFC) across various engine speeds, indicating more effective energy conversion and better fuel economy. Moreover, emissions analysis revealed that biodiesel blends with CNTs significantly reduce harmful emissions. Emissions of carbon monoxide (CO), unburned hydrocarbons (UHCs), and nitrogen oxide (NO x ) were consistently lower for DB50C and DB80C compared to D. The most notable reduction of 23.9% in NO x emissions occurred at an engine speed of 2200, while CO and UHC emissions were reduced by 17.8% and 15.4%, respectively, at engine speeds of 1600 rpm. These findings suggest that the use of biodiesel with CNT additives not only increases combustion efficiency but also contributes to cleaner engine operation. This study emphasizes the potential of biodiesel, especially when combined with advanced nanoparticles, as a practical and environmentally friendly alternative to conventional diesel fuel.