Biodiesel Fuel from Chlorella vulgaris and Effects of Its Low-Level Blends on the Performance, Emissions, and Combustion Characteristics of a Nonroad Diesel Engine
Publication: Journal of Energy Engineering
Volume 146, Issue 3
Abstract
Chlorella vulgaris is widely distributed in China and has the advantages of high oil content, short growth cycle, and wide growth space. Chlorella vulgaris biodiesel fuel (CVBF) made from Chlorella vulgaris has great development potential. In this study, the preparation, composition, and physicochemical properties of CVBF in China were analyzed, and the performance, emissions, and combustion characteristics of B0 and B5 (5% v/v CVBF and 95% diesel) in nonroad diesel engines were compared. The results show that CVBF has different physical and chemical properties than diesel fuel. The brake power and torque output of B5 is lower than B0, and the brake specific fuel consumption and brake specific energy consumption are higher. The maximum in-cylinder pressure and heat release rate of B5 is lower than B0, while the rate of cylinder pressure is higher, and the corresponding crankshaft angles are all advanced. The ignition delay and the premixed combustion duration of B5 are longer, while the diffusion combustion duration and the total combustion duration are slightly shorter. B5 has slightly higher emissions, but less CO emissions. B5 can significantly reduce unburned hydrocarbon and smoke emissions, especially at high loads. Low-level CVBF blends can partially replace diesel fuel, with the advantages of improved combustion processes and effective emissions reduction.
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Data Availability Statement
The experimental measurements and engine test studies conducted in this paper are from the engine bench laboratory of Jiangsu University. Some or all data, models, or code that support the findings of this study are available from the corresponding author upon reasonable request.
Acknowledgments
This study was financially supported by the China Postdoctoral Science Foundation (Grant No. 2017M621642), the National Natural Science Foundation of China (Grant No. 91741117), and a project funded by the Priority Academic Program Development of Jiangsu Higher Education Institutions (PAPD).
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Journal of Energy Engineering
Volume 146 • Issue 3 • June 2020
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©2020 American Society of Civil Engineers.
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Received: Oct 13, 2019
Accepted: Dec 26, 2019
Published online: Apr 13, 2020
Published in print: Jun 1, 2020
Discussion open until: Sep 13, 2020
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