Surface, volumetric, and wetting properties of oleic, linoleic, and linolenic acids with regards to application of canola oil in diesel engines

Abstract

Oleic, linoleic, and linolenic acids are the main components of canola oil and their physiochemical properties decide on the use of canola oil as fuel for diesel engines. Therefore, the measurements of the surface tension of oleic, linoleic, and linolenic acids being the components of the canola oil, as well as their contact angles on the polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA), and engine valve, were made. Additionally, the surface tension and contact angle on PTFE, PMMA, and the engine valve of the oleic acid and n-hexane mixtures were measured. On the basis of the obtained results, the components and parameters of oleic, linoleic, and linolenic acids' surface tension were determined and compared to those of the canola oil. Next, applying the components and parameters of these acids, their adhesion work to PTFE, PMMA, and the engine valve was calculated by means of various methods.