Thapa, Shreesha (2023) Investigation into alternative fuel. [USQ Project]
Abstract
This research delves deep into the experimental integration of varying proportions of butanol into diesel fuel within a single-cylinder, air-cooled diesel engine. Motivated by the promising physical and combustion properties of butanol, this study meticulously examines the consequential impact on engine performance, emissions, and combustion characteristics. Engine tests, spanning a spectrum of speeds from 1800 RPM to 3600 RPM, were conducted with neat diesel and blends comprising 3%, 6%, and 9% butanol by volume. The findings illuminated nuanced aspects of engine behavior in response to butanol-diesel blends.
In terms of performance, minor decreases of up to 4% in brake power and torque were observed due to butanol's lower heating value. Concurrently, fuel consumption and brake specific fuel consumption experienced marginal increments of up to 10% for the blends compared to pure diesel. Despite these minor efficiency trade-offs, the integration of butanol led to substantial reductions in carbon monoxide (CO) and unburned hydrocarbon emissions, surpassing 50% in certain instances across various engine loads and speeds. Carbon dioxide (CO2) levels remained stable, indicating no adverse impact on greenhouse gas emissions, while the increase in oxides of nitrogen (NOx) was insignificant. Importantly, oxygen and excess air ratio in the exhaust remained unaffected, signifying sustained stoichiometric combustion with the blends.
The combustion characteristics revealed a notable influence of butanol, manifesting in a more pronounced premixed combustion phase as indicated by the heat release rate. Despite slightly lower torque and power outputs, the study underscores the potential viability of butanol as a renewable fuel extender for diesel engines. Its ability to significantly reduce CO and HC emissions without compromising engine usability marks a significant step toward sustainable and environmentally friendly fuel alternatives. These findings contribute valuable insights to the ongoing pursuit of greener energy solutions and present a compelling avenue for future research and application. This research not only expands the understanding of butanol-diesel blends but also propels the field towards more eco-conscious energy solutions.
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| Item Type: | USQ Project |
|---|---|
| Item Status: | Live Archive |
| Faculty/School / Institute/Centre: | No Faculty |
| Supervisors: | Wandel, Andrew |
| Qualification: | Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) (Mechanical Engineering) |
| Date Deposited: | 09 Mar 2026 04:00 |
| Last Modified: | 09 Mar 2026 04:00 |
| Uncontrolled Keywords: | butanol; diesel; alternative fuel |
| URI: | https://sear.unisq.edu.au/id/eprint/53015 |
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