Extraction of bioethanol from Jatropha deoiled cake as a potential feedstock & its blending effects on the performance of single-cylinder SI engine

Abstract

Alternatives to conventional fuel sources have to be found because of the depletion of fossil fuels and stringent regulatory regulations. Every day, the growing population and improved transportation increase the energy demand. Agriculture and food waste management, as well as pollution, remain major issues that require attention. Bioethanol is an effective substitute for gasoline and SI engine diesel. Worldwide, passenger cars typically blend 10 % bioethanol with gasoline. Some nations, like India, have stated plans to blend 20% bioethanol with gasoline starting shortly. This paper describes the process of extracting ethanol from leftover Jatropha deoiled cake (JDC) and various blends' effects on spark-ignited engines' performance. From leftover JDC, bioethanol was produced utilizing the fermentation and vacuum distillation methods. Four different blends were prepared on a volumetric basis at different engine speeds at a constant compression ratio of 10:1 and the wide-open throttle was tested for various performance and emissions. Bioethanol enrichment increased indicated power, volumetric efficiency, and mechanical efficiency. Bioethanol enrichments reduce HC, CO, and CO2 emissions but increase nitrogen oxide emissions. JDCE 15 was found to have the best engine performance out of all the fuel blends tested. This study suggests that, if NOx emission reduction measures are carried out, JDC can be used as a source for the manufacturing of second-generation bioethanol. This research work is eco-friendly solution for bioethanol production.