Machine learning and response surface optimization to enhance diesel engine performance using milk scum biodiesel...

Area of Science:

• Sustainable Energy
• Materials Science
• Combustion Engineering

Background:

• Biodiesel derived from dairy scum methyl ester (DSME) offers a renewable alternative to fossil fuels.
• Nanoparticle additives can potentially enhance the combustion properties and performance of biodiesel fuels.
• Optimizing fuel blends is crucial for improving engine efficiency and reducing harmful emissions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effects of aluminum oxide (Al2O3) nanoparticle addition on the performance and emission characteristics of DSME biodiesel blends in a diesel engine.
• To evaluate the potential of nano-enhanced DSME biodiesel as a cleaner and more efficient alternative to conventional diesel fuel.
• To analyze the relationship between engine load, thermal efficiency, and emissions using machine learning models.

Main Methods:

• Preparation of five fuel blends: neat diesel, DSMEB10, DSMEB20, and nano-additized DSMEB10 and DSMEB20 with 50-60 ppm Al2O3 nanoparticles.
• Dispersion of Al2O3 nanoparticles using ultrasonication for homogeneous mixing.
• Experimental evaluation of engine performance (Brake Thermal Efficiency, Specific Fuel Consumption) and emission characteristics (CO2, NOx, overall pollutants).
• Application of machine learning models (Linear Regression, Huber Regression) for predictive analysis.

Main Results:

• The DSMEB10 blend with 50 ppm Al2O3 nanoparticles achieved a high Brake Thermal Efficiency (BTE) of 29.1%, comparable to conventional diesel.
• This nano-enhanced blend exhibited the lowest Specific Fuel Consumption (SFC) at 0.31 kg/kWh, indicating improved fuel utilization.
• Significant reductions in overall pollutants (40%), CO2 (36.3%), and NOx emissions were observed with the nano-additized DSMEB10 blend.
• Linear Regression model showed slightly better predictive accuracy (lower MSE and MAE) for engine performance and emissions compared to Huber Regression.

Conclusions:

• Nano-additized DSME biodiesel blends, particularly DSMEB10 with 50 ppm Al2O3, demonstrate superior engine performance and reduced emissions compared to conventional diesel.
• The incorporation of Al2O3 nanoparticles enhances combustion efficiency and leads to substantial environmental benefits.
• These findings support the viability of DSME biodiesel with nanoparticle enhancement as a sustainable and eco-friendly fuel alternative.