Performance, combustion and emissions characteristics of lanthanum zirconate coated DI engine fueled with nannochloropsis algae bio-diesel containing tin oxide nanoparticles

This study addresses the need for bio-fuels as alternatives to fossil fuels in diesel engines, focusing on Nannochloropsis Algae bio-fuel. It aimed to explore the effects of adding tin oxide nanoparticles to the bio-fuel and applying Lanthanum Zirconate coatings to engine parts. The research tested four fuel types: pure diesel, pure Nannochloropsis Algae, 80% diesel + 20% Nannochloropsis Algae, and 80% diesel + 20% Nannochloropsis Algae + tin oxide. Fuel properties like density, calorific value, viscosity, Cetane number and flash point were determined. The engine's performance was evaluated by measuring brake specific fuel consumption, brake thermal efficiency, emissions, heat release rate, and peak pressure. Results showed that the fuel blend of 80% diesel + 20% Nannochloropsis Algae + tin oxide in a coated engine had 5.7% lower brake specific fuel consumption and 9.2% higher brake thermal efficiency compared to diesel. Emissions of carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons, and smoke were reduced by 18.8%, 21.8%, and 17% respectively. The Lanthanum Zirconate coating alone decreased brake specific fuel consumption by 2.8% and increased brake thermal efficiency by 4.1%, with emissions reductions of 18%, 20%, and 16% respectively. This study highlights the potential benefits of bio-fuel blends and advanced coatings in diesel engines.