Spectroscopic verification of biodiesel synthesis from turpentine tree oil through two-step chemical reactions: investigation of the use of synthesized biodiesel and acetone as fuel additives in diesel engines

Abstract

In this research, the influence of acetone addition in diesel engines was assessed, examining its implications on combustion, performance, and emissions. Biodiesel was synthesized from turpentine oil via a dual-step process involving esterification and transesterification, validated through Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy. Nuclear Magnetic Resonance confirmed the presence of methyl esters while Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry facilitated the biodiesel component analysis. Tests on mixed fuels, conducted under varied load settings at 1500 rpm, showcased that introducing acetone to diesel escalated in-cylinder pressures, heat release rates, and gas temperatures but mitigated pressure rise rates. In contrast, its incorporation in the diesel/biodiesel blend revealed a decline in the aforementioned parameters and an enhancement in pressure rise rates. Specifically, diesel with acetone yielded a 2.72% and 8.07% reduction in brake specific fuel consumption and carbon monoxide emissions, respectively. However, brake thermal efficiency marginally elevated by 0.01%, accompanied by a 4.19% surge in nitrogen oxide emissions. Incorporating acetone in the diesel/biodiesel blend led to a 1.13% reduction in brake thermal efficiency and a notable 7.53% cut in nitrogen oxide emissions, while brake specific fuel consumption and carbon monoxide emissions rose by 1.14% and 3.61%, respectively. These effects of acetone necessitate additional research to explore its potential as an additive.