Effect of Diethyl Ether on Combustion and Emission Characteristics of Biodiesel Blend B20 Algae Oil

Abstract

Emission of carbon dioxide gases and damages occurring to the protective layers of the atmosphere due to the presence of pollutants like methane, chlorofluoro carbons etc. are the reasons for the Governments to adopt stricter emission norms. In the present situation where global warming is at an alarming level, there is a need to have alternate fuel which can reduce harmful emissions to a considerably low and acceptable level. Blends of B20, B40 and B100 algae oil are tested in variable compression ratio diesel engine and compared with diesel for its combustion, mechanical properties and emission performance. The performances of B20 blend are found closer to the performance of fossil fuel diesel and the blend is found suitable as one of the choice for the alternate fuel. Blend of B20 is further tested by adding 10% diethyl ether and an improvement in mechanical and emission characteristic is observed.