Investigation of Novel Pistacia khinjuk Biodiesel in DI Diesel Engine with Post Combustion Capture System

Abstract The exploration of new renewable based alternative fuel to the conventional fossil fuel research gains more attention due to increase in cost and environmental effect. The present study focused on obtaining new alternative fuel from non-edible oil namely Pistacia khinjuk seed oil using transesterification process. The fatty acid composition of neat biodiesel was evaluated using Gas Chromatography Mass Spectrometry method. Pistacia khinjuk methyl ester (PKME) was blended with diesel and investigated in the diesel engine. Diesel showed better performance characteristics than PKME blends due to its low calorific value and density. At all loads, PKME blends exhibited lower engine exhaust emissions than diesel. On the other hand, increasing trend of brake specific oxides of nitrogen (BSNO) was noticed with PKME blends. In order to minimize the emission without compromising performance parameters, Post-combustion Capture System (PCS) was installed in tail pipe. At all loads, diesel and PKME blends were individually investigated with PCS. Due to presence of selective catalytic reduction in PCS unit, B20 sample showed lower BSNO emission than diesel and other blends. Higher in-cylinder pressure and heat release rate were observed with PKME blends. In addition, B20 showed better engine characteristics than other blends proximate to mineral diesel.