CALOPHYLLUM INOPHYLLUM (PUNNAI SEED OIL) DERIVED BIOFUEL BLENDS: THERMAL PERFORMANCE AND ENGINE EMISSIONS

Abstract

An alternative renewable fuel resource must be identified to sustainably fulfill the expanding global energy demand. This study obtains a novel biofuel from the Punnai plant, and its physicochemical properties are evaluated against relevant standards. Conventional Diesel and Punnai oil diesel mixes are tested in an unchanged 4-stroke CI engine. As the mix ratio increases, the brake thermal efficiency decreases from 30.2% (diesel) to 26% (P40 Punnai oil diesel mix). As the percentage of blends increases, the heat-release rate decreases compared to regular diesel. The emission parameters CO, unburned HC, and smoke increase with increasing blend ratio, whereas NOx emission parameters decrease. Its natural or esterified form is suitable for a standard diesel engine. Punnai seed oil has the potential to fuel our transportation needs sustainably. Its unique energy content and ability to reduce emissions make it a promising alternative to traditional fossil fuels. With further research and development, punnai seed oil could be the driving force behind a cleaner and greener transportation future.