In a significant stride towards sustainable maritime fuels, a recent study published in ‘Scientific Reports’ has shed light on the potential of waste cooking oil biodiesel blends, enhanced with carbon nanotubes, to revolutionize engine performance and emissions. The research, led by J. Mohammed Azarudeen, a Research Scholar at the School of Mechanical Engineering, Sathyabama Institute of Science and Technology, offers promising insights for the maritime industry’s quest for greener alternatives.
The study delved into the effects of biodiesel derived from waste cooking oil, blended with single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) and multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs), on the performance and emissions of a compression ignition engine. The experiments were conducted at various torque levels, with the results compared to conventional petroleum diesel.
Azarudeen and his team found that biodiesel alone reduced brake-specific fuel consumption (BSFC) by 19.5%, brake-specific energy consumption (BSEC) by 5.9%, and brake thermal efficiency (BTE) by 5.8%. The addition of SWCNTs and MWCNTs moderated these reductions, with SWCNTs showing the most significant impact. “The addition of carbon nanotubes helped in improving the overall efficiency of the engine,” Azarudeen noted, highlighting the potential of these additives to enhance fuel performance.
On the emissions front, the study revealed substantial decreases in hydrocarbons (HC), carbon monoxide (CO), and particulate matter (PM). Biodiesel alone achieved up to an 89% reduction in these pollutants, while SWCNTs and MWCNTs pushed these reductions to 95% and 96%, respectively. However, the study also noted significant increases in carbon dioxide (CO2) and nitrogen oxides (NOx) emissions, underscoring the need for a balanced approach to sustainable fuel development.
For the maritime industry, these findings present both opportunities and challenges. The potential to reduce fuel consumption and certain emissions while maintaining engine performance is a significant step towards sustainability. However, the increase in CO2 and NOx emissions highlights the need for further research and development to mitigate these trade-offs.
Azarudeen emphasized the importance of these findings for the maritime sector, stating, “Our results indicate that while biodiesel and CNT additives enhance engine efficiency and reduce certain pollutants, their trade-offs in CO2 and NOx emissions necessitate further efforts to achieve a sustainable balance between performance and environmental impact.”
As the maritime industry continues to explore sustainable fuel options, this study offers valuable insights into the potential of waste cooking oil biodiesel blends enhanced with carbon nanotubes. The findings published in ‘Scientific Reports’ (translated to ‘Nature Reports’ in English) provide a roadmap for future research and development, paving the way for a greener and more sustainable maritime future.