Performance, Emission, and Economic Perspectives of a Diesel Engine Fueled with a Mixture of Hydroxy Gas and Biodiesel from Waste Palm Cooking Oil

Abstract

This investigation experimentally examines the influence of hydroxy gas fumigation in a diesel engine fueled with a biodiesel blend derived from waste palm cooking oil (B10). For the experimental tests, a fixed rotation speed of 2000 rpm and a load condition of 50%, 75%, and 100% have been established. Hydroxy gas (HHO) has been added through the engine's air intake system at a flow of 0.5 lpm, 0.75 lpm, and 1 lpm. Results have demonstrated the positive effect of HHO fumigation on the combustion performance of the B10 blend. Moreover, a reduction of 4.3% in the BSFC and a 2.64% increase in peak pressure in B10 due to the presence of HHO have been observed. On the other hand, a decrease of 8.7%, 9.9%, and 22.8% in CO2, HC, and smoke opacity emissions has been evidenced with the addition of HHO in B10. B10 implementation has promoted NOx emission escalation. However, this increase has been only 1.23% compared to pure diesel. In conclusion, HHO enrichment favors combustion performance and emissions minimization, which represents a significant opportunity to mitigate the negative effect of the lower calorific power of these types of fuels.