In a groundbreaking study published in the International Journal of Thermofluids, lead author Bala Divya Potnuru from the AU Trans-Disciplinary Research Hub at Andhra University and the Anil Neerukonda Institute of Technology and Sciences has shed light on the promising potential of a ternary fuel blend for diesel engines. This research could have significant implications for the maritime industry, where fuel efficiency and emissions are increasingly crucial.
The study focuses on a novel fuel blend composed of hybrid biodiesel, derived from Cassia fistula and Ricinus communis, mixed with three different alcohols—iso-butanol, iso-propanol, and n-butanol—each contributing 5% to the blend. To enhance performance, the researchers incorporated titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanoparticles and a surfactant, sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS), into the mix.
What’s particularly noteworthy is the blend’s performance metrics. The research indicates a slight reduction in brake specific fuel consumption (BSFC) and an uptick in brake thermal efficiency (BTE), which reached 26.91%. These improvements are vital for maritime operators looking to reduce fuel costs while maximizing engine performance. The combustion characteristics also showed promise, with combustion pressure (CP) hitting 68.12 bar and net heat release rate (NHRR) at 70.14 J/°CA.
From an emissions standpoint, the study reveals that the ternary fuel blend led to decreased carbon monoxide (CO), unburnt hydrocarbons (UHC), and smoke emissions. However, it did note an increase in nitrogen oxides (NOx), which is an area that maritime engineers will need to address. Potnuru emphasizes the importance of uniform nanoparticle distribution, stating, “The ternary fuel combination showed favorable operating characteristics when the nanoparticles were uniformly distributed.”
The commercial implications for the maritime sector are profound. As the industry grapples with stringent regulations on emissions and seeks to lower operational costs, this innovative fuel blend could offer a viable alternative to traditional diesel. By improving fuel efficiency and reducing harmful emissions, shipping companies could not only comply with environmental standards but also enhance their bottom line.
Moreover, the strong correlation coefficients (R2 values ranging from 0.92 to 0.99) obtained through Response Surface Methodology (RSM) suggest that the experimental results align closely with predictions, providing a reliable basis for future applications.
In summary, this research opens up exciting avenues for the maritime industry, where sustainable and cost-effective fuel solutions are in high demand. With ongoing advancements in fuel technology, the potential for greener shipping operations is becoming increasingly tangible, thanks to the pioneering work of researchers like Bala Divya Potnuru and her team.