Analysis of particle size diameter (PSD), mass fraction burnt (MFB) and particulate number (PN) emissions in a diesel engine powered by diesel/biodiesel/n-amyl alcohol blends

Abstract

Depletion of fossil fuel resources along with surge in pollution levels were jointly contributing to the era of quest for novel fuel source in recent years. For the past two decades, the research in engines were vividly focused on alternative fuels based on alcohol and various vegetable oil sources. Binary fuels (diesel with alcohol and biodiesel with alcohol) and ternary fuels (diesel/biodiesel/alcohol) were much popular in present years because biodiesel helps in prevention of mixture/phase stratification. Hence, the current research work is focussed to analyse the performance, combustion and emission profiles of diesel engine fueled with diesel/biodiesel/n-amyl alcohol blends. With increasing concentration of n-amyl alcohol (from 5% to 20%). Results were much interesting as the key performance indicators such as ID (Ignition delay), BTE and AFR were drastically improved. Simultaneous reductions in CO, HC and smoke opacity were found along with marginal improvements in NOx emissions. Maximum peak pressure, improved HRR and CHRR were found for biodiesel/diesel/n-amyl20 blend and higher MFB (Mass Fraction Burnt) is also reported for the same blend. Overall, an addition of 20% n-amyl alcohol in biodiesel diesel blends can be a possible substitute fuel for existing unmodified diesel engine.