Determination of the Optimum Blend Ratio of Diesel, Waste Oil Derived Biodiesel and 1-Pentanol Using the Response Surface Method

Abstract

Higher alcohols can be included as a third component in biodiesel-diesel mixtures to improve fuel properties and reduce emissions. Determining the optimum concentrations of these fuels according to the purpose of engine use is important both environmentally and economically. In this study, eight different concentrations of diesel (D), waste oil derived biodiesel (WOB), and 1-pentanol (P) ternary mixtures were determined by the design of experimental method (DOE). In order to determine the engine performance and exhaust emission parameters of these fuels, they were tested on a diesel engine with a constant load of 6 kW and a constant engine speed of 1800 rpm. Using the test results obtained, a full quadratic mathematical model with a 95% confidence level was created using the Response Surface Method (RSM) to predict five different output parameters (BSFC, BTE, CO, HC, and NOx) according to the fuel mixture ratios. The R2 accuracy values of the outputs were found at the reliability level. According to the criteria that BTE will be maximum and BSFC, CO, HC, and NOx emissions will be minimum, the optimization determined that the fuel mixture 79.09% D-8.33% WOB-12.58% P concentration (DWOBPopt) will produce the desired result. A low prediction error was obtained with the confirmation test. As a result, it is concluded that the optimized fuel can be an alternative to the commonly accepted B7 blend and can be used safely in diesel engines.