International Research Journal of Education and Technology

This research investigates the impact of incorporating antioxidants into algae biodiesel blend as a fuel for compression ignition engines. The study evaluates the performance and emission parameters of a microalgae biodiesel-diesel blend, including brake thermal efficiency (BTE), unburnt hydrocarbons (UBHC), carbon monoxide (CO), oxides of nitrogen (NOx), and smoke opacity. Experimental tests conducted at varying loads demonstrate that the algae biodiesel blend resulted in reductions of 28% in CO, 15% in UBHC, and 21% in smoke opacity, alongside a 38% increase in NOx emissions with minor fluctuations in BTE. Upon the addition of antioxidants to the blend, NOx emissions decreased by 25%, while CO, UBHC, and smoke emissions increased by 32%, 50%, and 36% respectively. To address these effects, engine tests were carried out with adjustments in injection timing. The combined influence of modified injection timing and antioxidants led to a 20% decrease in CO, UBHC, and smoke opacity, coupled with a 30% increase in NOx emissions at advanced injection timing, and vice versa. A trade-off injection timing of 24.5, 23.5, 24, and 24 CAD was identified to balance NOx emissions with smoke, UBHC, CO, and BTE, aiming to achieve effective NOx control while minimizing compromises on other emission parameters. This study provides valuable insights into optimizing engine performance and emissions characteristics when utilizing algae biodiesel blends with antioxidant enhancements.

Keywords: Algae biodiesel, Antioxidants, Emission reduction, CI engine, Fuel injection timing.