Alternative fuels composed by blends of nonionic surfactant with diesel and water: Engine performance and emissions

Abstract

Diesel-based microemulsions and a surfactant/diesel blend, using ethoxylated (5 EO) nonylphenol as surfactant, were prepared and tested in a diesel engine to evaluate its performance and emissions. The following properties were evaluated: density, viscosity, cloud point and corrosiveness. Experimental results showed that density and viscosity were greater than those obtained for neat diesel. Cloud point and corrosiveness were not affected by water and surfactant. Specific fuel consumption of the microemulsion systems was greater than that of diesel, but the small droplets of water improved diesel combustion. Compared with diesel, an increase in carbon monoxide (CO) and nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions and a decrease in black smoke emissions were obtained. In general, only microemulsions with up to 6% water are in accord with Brazilian diesel/biodiesel fuel regulations and specifications.