MIXTURES OF ESSENTIAL OILS AND ALCOHOLS WITH DIESEL OIL USE AND IMPACT ON ENGINE PERFORMANCE AND POLLUTANT EMISSIONS. A REVIEW

Robert-Madalin  CHIVU; Jorge  MARTINS; Florin  POPESCU; Ion V ION; Michael  FRATITA

doi:10.36910/conf_avto.v1i1.1395

Robert-Madalin CHIVU PhD in mechanical engineering, assistant professor at Department of Thermal Systems and Automotive Engineering, “Dunarea de Jos” University of Galati, Romania https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3383-5800
Jorge MARTINS associate professor PhD at the Department of Mechanical Engineering (DEM), University of Minho, Portugal https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2163-8030
Florin POPESCU PhD in mechanical engineering, professor at Department of Thermal Systems and Automotive Engineering, “Dunarea de Jos” University of Galati, Romania
Ion V ION PhD in mechanical engineering, professor at Department of Thermal Systems and Automotive Engineering, “Dunarea de Jos” University of Galati, Romania https://orcid.org/0000-0003-0396-8079
Michael FRATITA PhD in mechanical engineering, lecturer at Department of Thermal Systems and Automotive Engineering, “Dunarea de Jos” University of Galati, Romania https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8196-3137

DOI: https://doi.org/10.36910/conf_avto.v1i1.1395

Keywords: essential oils, alcohols, diesel engine, engine performance, pollutant emissions

Abstract

Recent discoveries in the field of using blends of essential oil, alcohol and diesel in diesel engines open new perspectives for optimizing performance and reducing pollutant emissions. This work focuses on evaluating the combined effects of these blends on engine performance parameters and pollutant emission profiles, providing insight into the benefits and challenges associated with their use. The review of the literature and empirical data highlights the promising potential of steam extraction of biofuels, as well as the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of transesterification of oils in the production of biofuels. Also, mixing distilled alcohol with essential oil and diesel fuel is revealed as a viable strategy for improving the combustion characteristics and performance of the diesel engine. The results indicate a number of significant improvements in engine performance, including reduced specific fuel consumption, increased power and torque, as well as improved thermal efficiency and reduced smoke emissions. However, it is important to note that certain mixtures may lead to a slight increase in nitrogen oxide (NO_x) emissions, which requires further research to optimize the composition of the mixtures and minimize the environmental impact. Overall, this study highlights the promising potential of using blends of essential oil, alcohol and diesel in diesel engines, highlighting the importance of continued research in the field to develop sustainable and energy efficient solutions for road transport.

Keywords: essential oils, alcohols, diesel engine, engine performance, pollutant emissions.