Optimization of ternary blends among refined palm oil-hexanol-melaleuca cajuputi oil and engine emissions analysis of the blends

This study investigated the viscosity, density, and calorific value of refined palm oil-hexanol-melaleuca cajuputi oil ternary biofuel blends suitable for diesel engine applications and their influence on the exhaust emissions. The mixture design method was used to formulate the blend ratio and to determine the optimal biofuel blend before it was introduced to the engine. Analysis of variance was used to identify the mathematical correlation between the blend's ratio and its effect on viscosity, density, and calorific value. Three mathematical equations were developed to predict viscosity, density, and calorific value of the blends with R2 values of 0.9998, 0.9988, and 0.9619, respectively. Based on the mixture design method algorithm, the blend ratio of 35RPO50MCO15HX was found to have key properties comply with ASTM D6751 specification. This optimal blend demonstrated lower nitrogen oxides and smoke opacity emission than diesel fuel with maximum reduction of 56% and 42%, respectively. Carbon monoxides and unburned hydrocarbon emissions were increased at low load but decreased close to diesel fuel at higher engine loads.

Automated summary

This study investigated the viscosity, density, and calorific value of refined palm oil-hexanol-melaleuca cajuputi oil ternary biofuel blends suitable for diesel engine applications and their influence on the exhaust emissions. The results showed that the optimal blend ratio could reduce nitrogen oxides and smoke opacity emissions, but increase carbon monoxide and unburned hydrocarbon emissions at low loads.