Considerations on the combustion of biofuels in compression ignition engines

Abstract

Biofuels are considered to be attractive alternative fuels due to rising oil prices and the depletion of fossil sources. It is produced by a process of transesterification of vegetable oils and animal fats with an alcohol in the presence of a catalyst. At present, biodiesel and bioethanol are considered solutions, and almost all EU countries have prepared a policy on the production and use of biodiesel in the transport and heating sectors. Biodiesel has certain advantages, such as a higher number of cetan, biodegradability, low sulfur content and aromatic content, and lower carbon monoxide emissions, unburned hydrocarbons and particulate matter. One of the main issues related to biodiesel and biodiesel blends is the high viscosity of the fuel. Among the biodiesel properties, density, viscosity and heating value affect engine performance and emission characteristics. The presented paper highlights the differences that occur in comparison to the classical fuels and the performances obtained when using biodiesel.