In this paper, selected
physicochemical properties such as kinematic
viscosity (ν), density (ρ), lower heating value (LHV),
cold filter plugging point (CFPP), miscibility, flash point (FP),
coefficient of friction (μ), lubricity (WS1.4), surface tension
(σ), and copper strip corrosion (CSC) of diethyl ether/rapeseed
oil blends were experimentally determined. Diethyl ether (DEE) was
blended with rapeseed oil (RO) in volumetric ratios of 10, 20, 30,
and 40%. The values of the LHV, kinematic viscosity, surface tension,
and density of the blends were lower than the values obtained for
the tested rapeseed oil. Especially, it was found that DEE has significant
influence on the rapeseed oil viscosity value. The addition of merely
10% DEE to rapeseed oil decreased its viscosity by 50%. It was shown
that the lubricity of all tested blends is reduced, but not as significantly
as viscosity. Also, we confirmed that tested blends do not promote
the corrosion processes. What is more, it was found that the temperature
of the CFPP decreased when DEE was added to RO and the miscibility
of all tested fuel blends is excellent in a wide range of temperature
changes. For this reason the results of our research suggest that
DEE/RO blends seem to be usable for engines operated in the winter
season. However, it should be confirmed in further engine research
carried out in low temperature conditions. In this study the diesel
smoke opacity (SO) was also measured in the condition of a free acceleration
test according to requirements of the United Nations Economic Commission
for Europe (ECE) Regulation No. 24. Results of these tests demonstrate
that the diesel smoke opacity is reduced even by 55% for DEE40 blend
compared with RO.