Performance and Emission Test of Algae and Corn Biodiesel Blends in an Diesel Engine

The increasing demand for renewable energy sources has prompted significant research into alternative fuels, particularly biodiesel. This study investigates the performance and emissions characteristics of biodiesel blends produced from algae oil and corn oil in a diesel engine. Algae and corn are both promising feedstocks for biodiesel production due to their high oil content and rapid growth rates. The experiment involved blending algae biodiesel (A-B20) and corn biodiesel (C-B20) at different concentrations with conventional diesel (D100) and testing them in a single-cylinder, direct-injection diesel engine. The engine performance was assessed by measuring parameters such as brake thermal efficiency (BTE), specific fuel consumption (SFC), and exhaust emissions, including nitrogen oxides (NOx), carbon monoxide (CO), carbon dioxide (CO2), and particulate matter (PM). The results indicated that biodiesel blends, particularly algae and corn biodiesel, show a potential for improved combustion efficiency compared to pure diesel, with algae biodiesel blends exhibiting slightly better overall performance. Additionally, the biodiesel blends demonstrated reduced particulate emissions and CO levels, while NOx emissions were observed to increase. The study suggests that algae and corn biodiesel blends are viable alternative fuels for diesel engines, offering environmental benefits, though further optimization of blend ratios and engine calibration is necessary to minimize NOx emissions.