DefinePK

Abstract

Non conventional, alternative and as different energy source of energy, biodiesel attracted many scientists and researchers to consider him as an alternative fuel for automotive sector in last few years by large. Biodiesel is an oxygenated fuel, which contains 10 % to 11% oxygen, no aromatics, higher cetane number and reduce harmful pollutants from engine exhaust. Higher viscosity, higher flashpoint, poor cloud point, poor pour point and poor cold filter plugging point of pure biodiesel limits its direct usage as fuel in the diesel engine. So it is required to prepare the blend of biodiesel /diesel with addition of ethanol as an additive in order to improve hot flow and cold flow properties of the blend. Improved hot flow and cold flow properties will enhance engine performance, combustion and exhaust emissions. In the present study feedstock of cottonseed biodiesel/diesel blend is used as fuel with the addition of 5% of ethanol as an additive. Blend properties were investigated as per IS 1448 standards. Experimental investigations were carried out on single cylinder diesel engine with eddy current dynamometer. Experimental investigation shows that addition of ethanol improves kinematic viscosity by 7% .cloud point by 9%, and pour point by 10% but density was increased by 3% and calorific value decreased by 9% .Engine performance , combustion characteristics and reduction in emissions , are improved drastically by addition of an ethanol as an additive in the cottonseed biodiesel/diesel blend . Improved hot flow and cold flow properties , improved combustion , improved performance and reduced emissions proves that cottonseed oil biodiesel/diesel blend with ethanol as an additive stands as an alternative fuel for diesel engine.