Work

Lanthanum oxide-enhanced botryococcus braunii biodiesel: A sustainable fuel for diesel engines

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: The growing reliance on fossil fuels in diesel engines has led to serious environmental and energy sustainability concerns, necessitating the exploration of renewable biofuels. This study investigates the potential of Botryococcus braunii oil methyl ester (BBOME) as a biodiesel alternative and evaluates the influence of lanthanum oxide (La 2 O 3 ) nanoparticles as a performance-enhancing additive. The novelty of this work lies in the integration of La 2 O 3 nanoparticles into BBOME biodiesel to improve engine performance, combustion characteristics, and emission reduction, which remains an underexplored area in biofuel research. BBOME was synthesized via transesterification, and two concentrations of La 2 O 3 nanoparticles (100 ppm and 200 ppm) were blended into a 30% BBOME-diesel mix (BBOME_30). Performance, combustion, and emission characteristics were assessed using a single-cylinder, four-stroke, direct-injection diesel engine at 1500 rpm, a compression ratio of 17.5:1, and an injection timing of 21° bTDC. The results demonstrated that the addition of 200 ppm La 2 O 3 (BBOME_30+La 2 O 3 _200) enhanced brake thermal efficiency (BTE) by 6.5%, while brake-specific fuel consumption (BSFC) was reduced, indicating improved fuel utilization. Emissions of carbon monoxide (CO), unburnt hydrocarbons (UBHC), and smoke opacity decreased by 12%, 15%, and 18%, respectively. Combustion analysis showed an increase in in-cylinder pressure and heat release rate, along with an 8% reduction in ignition delay period (IDP), highlighting improved combustion efficiency. These findings establish that La 2 O 3 nanoparticle-enhanced BBOME biodiesel offers a sustainable, high-performance alternative to conventional diesel, contributing to cleaner fuel technology. The study aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs 7, 12, and 13) by promoting clean energy, responsible fuel consumption, and reduced environmental impact. The results indicate that La 2 O 3 -doped biodiesel could be a viable solution for improving diesel engine performance in transportation and industrial applications, thereby supporting global sustainability efforts.

Source: Case Studies in Thermal Engineering

DOI: 10.1016/j.csite.2025.106594

Authors: Swarup Kumar Nayak, Ganesan Subbiah, Senthil Kumar Duraisamy, Nalla Bhanu Teja, Devarajan Yuvarajan

Institutions: KIIT University, Sathyabama Institute of Science and Technology, Sona College of Technology, Aditya University, Saveetha University

Language: English

Topic: Biodiesel Production and Applications

Subfield: Fuel Technology

Field: Energy

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Affordable and clean energy, Responsible consumption and production, Climate action, Industry, innovation and infrastructure

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,620