Experimental investigation for evaluating the performance and emission characteristics of DICI engine fueled with dual biodiesel-diesel blends of Jatropha, Karanja, Mahua, and Neem

The present research work focuses on evaluating performance, combustion and emission characteristics of DICI engine fueled with dual biodiesel blends. The study aims to examine the potential of application of dual biodiesel blends produced from non-edible category of bio-oils from Jatropha (Jatropha Carcus), Karanja (Pongamia Pinnata), Mahua (Madhuca Indica), and Neem (Azadirachta Indica). By using these four biodiesels, six sets of dual biodiesel blends are prepared (i.e. 10 % Biodiesel and 90 % Diesel). Based on the characterization study, it is found that physio-chemical properties are within permissible limits. Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA) and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopic (FTIR) analysis is conducted to examine thermal properties and functional groups of biodiesel blends under consideration. Performance parameters are evaluated for DICI engine at various engine loads with full throttle condition. The performance parameters such as air/fuel ratio, brake thermal, mechanical, and volumetric efficiencies are lower, whereas brake specific energy consumption (BSEC), and exhaust gas temperature (EGT) are higher compared to neat diesel. The effects of blends on exhaust emissions like CO, CO2, HC and NOx were investigated and compared with neat diesel. Blend D90 + JB5+NB5 indicates highest reduction in CO (46.91 %). All the blends under considerations shows higher CO2 emission compared to neat diesel. •Weight loss and functional groups through TGA and FTIR were investigated and compared.•Dual biodiesel blends improves the MFB on the expense of marginal cylinder pressure.•Blend D90 + KB5+NB5 showed 36.66 % increase in BTE at 2.5 kW BP.•BSEC is similar to neat diesel at full throttle condition for all blends.•Blend D90 + JB5+NB5 showed 46.91 % reduction in CO at 3.3 kW BP.