Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: Crude palm oil (CPO) is a promising alternative due to its renewability and widespread availability. However, its high viscosity, poor atomization, and incomplete combustion pose significant challenges, affecting engine performances and emissions. Addressing these limitations is crucial for the practical utilization of CPO in diesel engines. This study investigates the feasibility of using CPO and its modified blends as alternative fuels for diesel engines. To improve fuel properties, CPO was preheated to reduce viscosity and blended with 70 vol% diesel (DCPO). Then the DCPO was emulsified with two different water percentages: 5 vol% (DCPOE5) and 10 vol% (DCPOE10) to enhance fuel stability and combustion efficiency. Experimental tests for DCPOE were conducted on a diesel engine generator operating at 2800 rpm under varying loads ranging from idling to 3kW. Combustion characteristics and emission levels were analyzed to assess the performance of each fuel blends. The experimental results demonstrates that emulsified DCPO blends significantly improved combustion characteristics, with DCPOE5 and DCPOE10 reducing smoke emissions averagely by 22.8% and 59%, respectively, compared to diesel. Additionally, DCPOE5 lowered NOx and CO emissions by 16.2% and 17.5%, respectively, due to the micro-explosion phenomenon which enhanced fuel atomization. These findings indicate that emulsified DCPO can serve as a viable alternative fuel for diesel engines, offering a cleaner and more sustainable energy source. This study provides valuable insights into the combustion behavior and emission characteristics of CPO-based fuels, contributing to the development of sustainable fuel solutions. Further research on optimization strategies and long-term engine durability are recommended for broader adoption in commercial applications.
Authors: Nurul Aiyshah Mazlan, Wira Jazair Yahya, Ahmad Muhsin Ithnin, Mohd Fareez Edzuan Abdullah, Muhammad Faris, Kinoshita Eiji
Language: English
Subfield: Fuel Technology
Field: Energy
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
OpenAlex ID: W4415501601