Investigation of bionano additives in red algae Cyanidioschyzon merolae ultrasonified MgO/MWCNT catalyzed biodiesel...

Renewable energy research is burgeoning with the anticipation of finding neat liquid fuel. Ultra sonification assisted biodiesel was derived from red algae Cyanidioschyzon merolae, with biodiesel yield of 98.9%. The results of GC MS of the prepared biodiesel showed higher concentration of methyl palmitate, methyl oleate, and stearate. This composition is appreciable, as this plays significance in desirable pour & cloud point properties. NMR spectrum revealed the ester linkages, presence of olefins, and α methyl position in olefins. Mixture of 30 wt% of biodiesel in diesel exhibited work efficiency, and also exhibited low pour point and, lower viscosity values. CeO₂ and Fe₂O₃ nano particles were bio reduced, and were added as nano additive in biodiesel. 1:1 ratio of CeO₂ and Fe₂O₃ added to biodiesel maximised the combustion ability of fuel owing to the oxygen storage capacity of CeO₂. Further, this combination produced a satisfactory calorific value. Imbalanced ratios disrupted the catalytic and oxygen storage effects, reduced the overall energy release and calorific value of the biodiesel blend. Pour point and cetane number value of biodiesel blend ultrasonifacted with 1:1 mass ratio of Fe₂O₃ and CeO₂ was observed to be around -7 °C and 53 °C respectively, and was better than other compositions. 1:1 mass ratio of NPS blended with 30 wt% BD in diesel showed tremendous increase in brake thermal efficiency, torque, and power. HC, NO_X, and SO_X emissions were reduced by 42.8%, 19.3%, and 57% respectively with 1:1 Fe₂O₃ and CeO₂ mixed biodiesel blend. CeO₂ favourably improved the oxygen storage capacity of the fuel, whereas Fe₂O₃ showed decrease in formation of gums and sediments in biodiesel.