Experimental Investigation on Performance and Emission Characteristics of a Diesel Engine Fuelled with Linseed Biodiesel Blends

Abstract

The core object of this study is to examine the suitability of linseeds for biodiesel production. Engine performance and emissions at different proportions of linseed-diesel blends were investigated. Linseed biodiesel was produced through transesterification process and mixed with petro-diesel fuel (D100) at volumetric ratios of 5% (LB5), 10% (LB10), and 15% (LB15). The properties of linseed biodiesel and its blends were measured according to ASTM standards and compared with petro-diesel as a threshold for comparison. The results showed that fuel properties of produced biodiesel are within ASTM permissible limits. Engine test shows lower specific fuel consumption (SFC) for LB5 blend compared to LB10 and LB15 with slightly higher value compared to that of D100. The higher brake thermal efficiency (BTE) was observed for LB15 among the other investigated fuel samples. The heat dissipation rate in all linseed blends was found to have been less than that of D100. Carbon monoxide (CO), carbon dioxide (CO2) and hydrocarbons (HC) emissions of linseed blends are mostly lower in comparison with D100’s. Among all blends, LB5 was found more suitable alternative fuel for diesel engines and can be blended with petro diesel without engine modifications. It can be concluded that cultivation and production of linseed in Iraq is very promising, therefore, it is recommended that proper exploitation and use of linseed for energy production may be encouraged through pertinent agencies of Iraq.