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Open AccessArticle

Studies on the Performance of Engines Powered with Hydrogen-Enriched Biogas

by

Vivek Pandey

,

Kiran Hanmanthrao Shahapurkar

,

Suresh Guluwadi

,

Getinet Asrat Mengesha

,

Bekele Gadissa

,

Nagaraj Ramalingayya Banapurmath

,

Chandramouli Vadlamudi

,

Sanjay Krishnappa

and

T. M. Yunus Khan

Energies 2023, 16(11), 4349; https://doi.org/10.3390/en16114349 - 26 May 2023

Viewed by 190

Abstract

Sustainability of energy supply has become a prime concern for energy producers and consumers alike. There is heightened awareness in the global community about the decreasing supply of conventional fossil fuels along with increasing fuel and energy demand and the consequent rise in [...] Read more.

Sustainability of energy supply has become a prime concern for energy producers and consumers alike. There is heightened awareness in the global community about the decreasing supply of conventional fossil fuels along with increasing fuel and energy demand and the consequent rise in unit energy cost. In addition to the sustainability aspect, the environmental impact of emissions from fossil fuel combustion is the focus of global targets for emissions reduction. In this context, the research and application of sustainable and non-polluting fuels become significant. Internal combustion (IC) engines are part of a significant energy-consuming sector, and the application of sustainable and non-polluting fuels within IC engines would be impactful. Biogas and hydrogen are viewed as sustainable and non-polluting alternatives to conventional fossil fuels. However, either of these used individually offer certain disadvantages. Experimental results and analysis of the performance and emissions characteristics of an IC engine fueled with biogas blended with 5, 10, and 15% hydrogen volume fractions are studied. An increase in hydrogen content increases the engine’s performance and power and reduces carbon monoxide (CO) and total hydrocarbons (THCs). However, nitrogen oxides (NOx) are found to increase due to higher combustion temperatures attributed to hydrogen. A 17.5% increase in brake power is observed for 15% hydrogen-enriched biogas, compared to plain biogas, at an equivalence ratio of 0.6. Similarly, a 17% increase in BTE, a 50% decrease in CO, a 68% decrease in UHC, but a 71% increase in NOx are observed for 15% hydrogen-enriched biogas. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Progress in Biodiesel and IC Engines)

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Open AccessArticle

Transesterification of Algae Oil and Little Amount of Waste Cooking Oil Blend at Low Temperature in the Presence of NaOH

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,

and

Energies 2023, 16(3), 1293; https://doi.org/10.3390/en16031293 - 25 Jan 2023

Viewed by 809

Abstract

The present study describes the single-step transesterification method of biodiesel production from high free fatty acid (FFA) waste cooking oil blended with algae oil using a homogeneous base catalyst. Due to high FFA contents, two step transesterification is needed to convert oil into [...] Read more.

The present study describes the single-step transesterification method of biodiesel production from high free fatty acid (FFA) waste cooking oil blended with algae oil using a homogeneous base catalyst. Due to high FFA contents, two step transesterification is needed to convert oil into biodiesel and therefore the high FFA content of waste cooking oil is decreased by blending it with low FFA content algae oil, which would further lead only to single step transesterification of low FFA oil. The design and optimization studies were conducted using Response Surface Methodology (RSM). The box-Behnken design technique is applied to optimize the three process parameters, i.e., catalyst concentration (0–2 wt%), methanol concentration (v/v) (20–60%) and reaction time (60–180 min) at a uniform reaction temperature of 50 °C. The result of the current study indicates that an effective biodiesel yield of 92% can be obtained at the optimized condition of catalyst concentration of 1.5% (w/w), methanol/oil ratio of 21:1 and reaction time of 110 min at a constant reaction temperature of 50 °C. This analysis clearly shows that this study can resolve the storage problem of high FFA oils from different feedstock and RSM can be successfully used to model the reaction to maximize the biodiesel yield. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Progress in Biodiesel and IC Engines)

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Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

The Initial Boiling Point of Lubricating Oil as an Indicator for the Assessment of the Possible Contamination of Lubricating Oil with Diesel Oil

by

Leszek Chybowski

Energies 2022, 15(21), 7927; https://doi.org/10.3390/en15217927 - 25 Oct 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 791

Abstract

This article provides a brief introduction to the indicators of the volatility and flammability of lubricating oils and fuels. It is proposed that the initial boiling point be used as an indicator of the contamination of lubricating oil with distillate fuel (i.e., diesel [...] Read more.

This article provides a brief introduction to the indicators of the volatility and flammability of lubricating oils and fuels. It is proposed that the initial boiling point be used as an indicator of the contamination of lubricating oil with distillate fuel (i.e., diesel biofuel oil) in the context of the rapid detection of explosion risks in the crankcase. Detailed tests were carried out on lubricating oil samples (SAE 30 and SAE 40 grades, which are most commonly used in the lubrication systems of marine trunk engines) diluted with diesel oil at selected mass concentrations (0, 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50, and 100%). The oils were tested to determine their relevant properties: the flash point temperature and the initial boiling temperature. The flash point was determined in a closed crucible using the Pensky–Martens method, which is in accordance with PN-EN ISO 2719. The differences between the initial boiling point and the flash point of the tested lubricating oils were determined for different dilution levels of lubricating oil in diesel fuel. An approximate method for the calculation of the flash point of the oil based on the initial boiling point is proposed. The results of oil flash point measurements are compared with values calculated as a function of the boiling point for both lubricating oils tested. An evaluation of how well models fit the experimental results is reported. Conclusions are presented on the applicability of the proposed method during operational practice. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Progress in Biodiesel and IC Engines)

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Open AccessArticle

Investigations into the Combined Effect of Mahua Biodiesel Blends and Biogas in a Dual Fuel Engine

by

Anmol Singh Kshatriya

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Prabhatkumar Tiwari

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Sreekanth M

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T. M. Yunus Khan

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Shaik Dawood Abdul Khadar

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Mohamed Mansour

and

Feroskhan M

Energies 2022, 15(6), 2057; https://doi.org/10.3390/en15062057 - 11 Mar 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1250

Abstract

Rapid depletion of conventional fuel sources has led to the use of alternative fuels and implementation of variant engine technologies to reduce deleterious emissions being released and deliver thermal energy for numerous applications. This research aims to study the usage of mahua methyl [...] Read more.

Rapid depletion of conventional fuel sources has led to the use of alternative fuels and implementation of variant engine technologies to reduce deleterious emissions being released and deliver thermal energy for numerous applications. This research aims to study the usage of mahua methyl ester in a single-cylinder 4-stroke CI engine, optimized to operate in the dual fuel mode. Performance, combustion and emission characteristics are recorded and compared with diesel with the sole aim of finding the blend that provides adequate performance and diminishing emissions. To this effect, the percentage of mahua biodiesel blend, load, biogas flow rate and methane fraction are varied. The experimentation is conducted using three mahua biodiesel blend variants namely B10, B20 and B30. Gaseous fuel comprising biogas (CH₄ and CO₂ in ratio of 3:2) and methane (CH₄) are incorporated in the dual fuel condition at 8 litre per minute (lpm) and 12 lpm. B20 blend demonstrated better performance and emission characteristics. The addition of biodiesel (B20) showed more than 5% improvement in brake thermal efficiency. Additionally, comparing with normal diesel mode, B20 showed lower CO (0.061%) and NO_x (615 ppm) emissions. In the dual fuel condition, methane and biogas are effective in reducing the NO_x emissions, but with a negative repercussion of extortionately elevated HC and CO emissions. The best combination is deduced to be B20 mahua biodiesel at 8 lpm of biogas flow rate in the dual fuel mode due to better performance and emission characteristics. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Progress in Biodiesel and IC Engines)

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Review

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Open AccessReview

A Review of Tropical Organic Materials for Biodiesel as a Substitute Energy Source in Internal Combustion Engines: A Viable Solution?

by

Anderson Breno Souza

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Alvaro Antonio Villa Ochoa

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José Ângelo Peixoto da Costa

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Gustavo de Novaes Pires Leite

,

Héber Claudius Nunes Silva

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Andrezza Carolina Carneiro Tómas

,

David Campos Barbosa

and

Paula Suemy Arruda Michima

Energies 2023, 16(9), 3736; https://doi.org/10.3390/en16093736 - 27 Apr 2023

Viewed by 686

Abstract

In this article, the most important publications on the subject are compiled to highlight the progress in biodiesel production from tropical cultivars, including energy and environmental potential, raw materials, and the advantages and disadvantages of this biofuel. A critical and objective review of [...] Read more.

In this article, the most important publications on the subject are compiled to highlight the progress in biodiesel production from tropical cultivars, including energy and environmental potential, raw materials, and the advantages and disadvantages of this biofuel. A critical and objective review of biodiesel production as an alternative fuel for power generation systems and its importance in the energy matrix was conducted. A survey of real applications, new computational and experimental trends, and proposals in internal combustion engines employing organic biofuel was performed. The main findings were as follows: (i) there is the possibility of integration and support in the energy matrix of different countries, as well as the competing with and complementing, energetically, other renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind; (ii) Jatropha curcas, sunflowers, soybean, Moringa oleifera, palm, cottonseed, castor, rubber seed, and coconut are tropical cultivars used to obtained oils into biodiesel; (iii) the findings can be utilized as a theoretical basis for future policies influencing the energy sector through regulatory measures. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Progress in Biodiesel and IC Engines)

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Open AccessReview

A Review on Recent Developments of RCCI Engines Operated with Alternative Fuels

by

Siva Krishna Reddy Dwarshala

,

Siva Subramaniam Rajakumar

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Obula Reddy Kummitha

,

Elumalai Perumal Venkatesan

,

Ibham Veza

and

Olusegun David Samuel

Energies 2023, 16(7), 3192; https://doi.org/10.3390/en16073192 - 01 Apr 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 676

Abstract

Environmental concerns over automotive exhaust emissions and consumer demand for higher fuel efficiency have led to the development of low-temperature combustion concepts. The reactivity-controlled compression ignition (RCCI) engine is one among them and has the potential to reduce NOx and smoke emissions simultaneously. [...] Read more.

Environmental concerns over automotive exhaust emissions and consumer demand for higher fuel efficiency have led to the development of low-temperature combustion concepts. The reactivity-controlled compression ignition (RCCI) engine is one among them and has the potential to reduce NOx and smoke emissions simultaneously. In this concept, a low-reactivity fuel is injected into the intake port and another high-reactivity fuel is injected into the cylinder directly. This results in reactivity stratification and provides more control over the rate of heat release. However, operating parameters such as reactivity of fuels, premixing ratio, injection strategies, exhaust gas recirculation ratio, piston bowl geometry, and compression ratio influence emissions formation. The article reviews recent developments on the effect of the above operating parameters on the performance and emission characteristics of RCCI engines operated with alternative fuels. The combustion strategies used to extend the RCCI mode to higher loads are also reviewed. Applications of computational fluid dynamics (CFDs) to design the combustion chamber for RCCI engines are discussed. The need for further improvements in the CFD models for RCCI engines is explained. After presenting a thorough review of recent literature, directions for future research on RCCI engines are proposed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Progress in Biodiesel and IC Engines)

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Open AccessReview

Review on Mono and Hybrid Nanofluids: Preparation, Properties, Investigation, and Applications in IC Engines and Heat Transfer

by

Atul Bhattad

,

Vinay Atgur

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Boggarapu Nageswar Rao

,

N. R. Banapurmath

,

T. M. Yunus Khan

,

Chandramouli Vadlamudi

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,

,

and

Energies 2023, 16(7), 3189; https://doi.org/10.3390/en16073189 - 31 Mar 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 931

Abstract

Nano fluids are widely used today for various energy-related applications such as coolants, refrigerants, and fuel additives. New coolants and design modifications are being explored due to renewed interest in improving the working fluid properties of heat exchangers. Several studies have investigated nanofluids [...] Read more.

Nano fluids are widely used today for various energy-related applications such as coolants, refrigerants, and fuel additives. New coolants and design modifications are being explored due to renewed interest in improving the working fluid properties of heat exchangers. Several studies have investigated nanofluids to enhance radiator and heat exchanger performance. A new class of coolants includes single, binary, and tertiary nanoparticle-based hybrid nano-coolants using ethylene glycol/deionized water combinations as base fluids infused with different nanoparticles. This review article focuses on the hydrothermal behavior of heat exchangers (radiators for engine applications) with mono/hybrid nanofluids. The first part of the review focuses on the preparation of hybrid nanofluids, highlighting the working fluid properties such as density, viscosity, specific heat, and thermal conductivity. The second part discusses innovative methodologies adopted for accomplishing higher heat transfer rates with relatively low-pressure drop and pump work. The third part discusses the applications of mono and hybrid nanofluids in engine radiators and fuel additives in diesel and biodiesel blends. The last part is devoted to a summary of the research and future directions using mono and hybrid nanofluids for various cooling applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Progress in Biodiesel and IC Engines)

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Open AccessReview

Biodiesel Additives Synthesis Using Solid Heteropolyacid Catalysts

by

Marcio Jose da Silva

,

Neide Paloma Gonçalves Lopes

and

Alana Alves Rodrigues

Energies 2023, 16(3), 1332; https://doi.org/10.3390/en16031332 - 27 Jan 2023

Viewed by 662

Abstract

Fossil additives are a primary energy source and their contribution is around 80% in the world. Therefore, bioadditives that reduce their impact are each very important. This article discusses the chemical transformation of glycerol to carbonate, ethers, esters, ketals, and acetals, compounds with [...] Read more.

Fossil additives are a primary energy source and their contribution is around 80% in the world. Therefore, bioadditives that reduce their impact are each very important. This article discusses the chemical transformation of glycerol to carbonate, ethers, esters, ketals, and acetals, compounds with high technological applications, especially in the fuel sector as bioadditives. Mainly, heterogeneous catalysts are important in the production of more than 80% of chemicals in the word. The focus is on demonstrating how the Keggin heteropolyacids (HPAs) are efficient catalysts in the reactions of syntheses of glycerol-derived bioadditives, either in homogeneous or heterogeneous phases. Although solid, HPAs have a low surface area and are soluble in polar solvents, hampering their use as heterogeneous catalysts. Alternatively, they have been successfully used supported on solid matrixes with a high surface area. Another option is converting the Keggin HPAs to insoluble salts simply by exchanging their protons with large cations like potassium, cesium, or ammonium-derivatives. Therefore, solid heteropoly salts have reduced the cost and the environmental impact of bioadditive synthesis processes, being an alternative to traditional mineral acids or solid-supported catalysts. This review describes the most recent advances achieved in the processes of synthesis of glycerol-derived bioadditives over solid-supported HPAs or their solid heteropoly salts. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Progress in Biodiesel and IC Engines)

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Open AccessReview

Essence of Thermal Analysis to Assess Biodiesel Combustion Performance

by

Vinay Atgur

,

G. Manavendra

,

Nagaraj R. Banapurmath

,

Boggarapu Nageswar Rao

,

Ali A. Rajhi

,

T. M. Yunus Khan

,

Chandramouli Vadlamudi

,

Sanjay Krishnappa

,

Ashok M. Sajjan

and

R. Venkatesh

Energies 2022, 15(18), 6622; https://doi.org/10.3390/en15186622 - 10 Sep 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1383

Abstract

The combustion phenomena are always complex in nature due to the involvement of complex series and parallel reactions. There are various methods that are involved in analyzing combustion phenomena. Viscosity is the first and foremost factor that acts as the DNA of fuel. [...] Read more.

The combustion phenomena are always complex in nature due to the involvement of complex series and parallel reactions. There are various methods that are involved in analyzing combustion phenomena. Viscosity is the first and foremost factor that acts as the DNA of fuel. By evaluating the viscosity, it is possible initially to understand the combustion phenomena. Thermophysical and transport properties are helpful during the intensification of the combustion process. Combustion experiments are economically infeasible and time-consuming processes. Combustion simulations demand excellent computational facilities with detailed knowledge of chemical kinetics. So far, the majority of researchers have focused on analyzing coal combustion phenomena, whereas less work has been carried out on liquid fuels, especially biodiesel combustion analysis. Traditional engine testing provides only performance parameters, and it fails to have oversight of the thermodynamic aspects. The application of thermal analysis methods in combustion research is useful in the design, modeling, and operation of the systems. Such investigations are carried out extensively in the combustor, engine, and process industries. The use of differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and thermogravimetry (TG) to assess the properties of biofuels has been attracting researchers in recent years. The main objective of this paper is to discuss the application of TGA and DSC to analyze heat flow, enthalpy, thermal stability, and combustion indexes. Moreover, this paper reviews some of the other aspects of the kinetics of combustion, transport properties’ evaluation, and combustion simulations for biodiesels and their blends. TG curves indicate two phases of decomposition for diesel and three phases for biofuel. The B-20 blend’s (20% biodiesel and 80% diesel) performance was found to be similar to that of diesel with the combustion index and intensity of combustion nearly comparable with diesel. It is thermally more stable with a high offset temperature, confirming a longer combustion duration. A case study reported in this work showed diesel and B20 JOME degradation start from 40 °C, whereas jatropha oil methyl ester (JOME) degradation starts from 140 °C. JOME presents more decomposition steps with high decomposition temperatures, indicative of more stable compound formation due to the oxidation process. The peak temperature of combustion for diesel, JOME, and B20 JOME are 250.4 °C, 292.1 °C, and 266.5 °C, respectively. The ignition index for the B-20 blend is 73.73% more than that of diesel. The combustion index for the B20 blend is 37.81% higher than diesel. The B20 blend exhibits high enthalpy, better thermal stability, and a reduced peak temperature of combustion with an improved combustion index and intensity of combustion nearly comparable to diesel. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Progress in Biodiesel and IC Engines)

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