Optimization of exhaust emissions of a diesel engine fuelled with biodiesel

The performance of biodiesel in a single-cylinder diesel engine was studied and optimized by varying the engine settings, including the injection timing, injection pressure, and fuel pump plunger diameter. The engine emissions were found to be lowered for particulate matters (PM) and hydrocarbon (HC) with the use of biodiesel, but an obvious increase in the oxides of nitrogen (NOx) was observed, particularly at high engine loadings. The results revealed that individual adjustment of the above-mentioned parameters could not acquire a good balance between PM and NOx emissions. On the other hand, multiparameter engine adjustment with the consideration of their cross-interactive effects can keep the benefit of reducing PM and HC without increasing NOx emission and sacrificing fuel combustion efficiency.