Performance and Emission Optimization of a CI Engine Fueled with Juliflora Biodiesel Using Response Surface Methodology

The objectives of the current study are to assess the performance and emission characteristics of a diesel engine running on Juliflora biodiesel-based blends at varying levels of brake power. These ob-jectives were achieved through the implementation of a response surface methodology-based optimi-zation technique to evaluate the combined effect of varying levels of brake power and biodiesel blend on engine parameters such as BTE, CO, HCs, NOx, and smoke. Contour plots were developed to evaluate the interaction effects between the variables. The accuracy of the developed model was validated through a test and forecast method. The most significant findings of the current study include the improvement in BTE with increasing levels of brake power. An improvement of 10-12% was achieved for Juliflora biodiesel-based blends compared to conventional diesel operation. Moreover, the levels of incomplete combustion emissions such as CO, HCs, and smoke were found to decrease substantially. Emissions of CO, HCs, and smoke were found to decrease by 55-60%, 30-35%, and 65-70%, respectively. However, NOx levels were found to increase by 35-40%. The developed model was found to have high accuracy in predicting the engine parameters, as the R² value was found to be greater than 0.95. The significance of the results lies in the demonstration of the fact that increased brake power along with a moderate level of Juliflora biodiesel blend ratio offers the optimum compromise between improved thermal efficiency and minimized incomplete combustion-related emissions. The results also reflect the viability of Juliflora biodiesel as a substitute fuel for diesel engines, which is beneficial for the cause of utilizing the energy in a more environmentally friendly manner.