Performance Analysis of Diesel Blends with Additives: Impact on Power, Efficiency, and Emissions

Abstract

This study investigates the performance characteristics of an engine operating with diesel fuel blended with various additives, including turpentine oil, alpha-pinene oil, and oxygenated fuels. Engine performance was evaluated under high load conditions at different engine speeds, focusing on brake power (BP), brake torque (BT), brake thermal efficiency (BTE), brake specific fuel consumption (BSFC), and exhaust gas temperature (EGT). The results indicate that additive-diesel blends generally enhance engine performance compared to conventional diesel fuel. Specifically, at 1,800 rpm, alpha-pinene diesel (APD) achieved the highest BP improvement (7.33%) over diesel, while turpentine diesel (TD) recorded the highest BTE (24%) with a notable reduction in BSFC. The oxygenated additive-diesel blends further improved combustion efficiency, lowering BSFC and EGT values. However, the torque performance varied, with some oxygenated additives showing a slight reduction due to increased oxygen content. The findings suggest that incorporating specific chemical additives can optimize engine efficiency and fuel consumption while reducing exhaust emissions. These results support the potential of alternative fuel formulations in improving engine sustainability and performance.