Edible-based alternative fuel feedstocks

The regular use of diesel engines in transportation, agriculture, and power generation continues to pose substantial environmental issues due to greenhouse gas emissions and particulate matter. Biodiesel, particularly from renewable feedstocks, is a feasible alternative for mitigating these effects. This study looks at the viability of coconut oil biodiesel (COB) as a sustainable alternative to petroleum diesel in a common rail direct injection diesel engine. Five fuel blends ranging from 0% to 50% COB were evaluated under 16 distinct operating circumstances to determine their impacts on engine performance and emissions. The results reveal that lower COB mixes (COB10 and COB20) produced torque and brake power outputs equivalent to diesel, with very minor increases in brake-specific fuel consumption. Higher blends (COB50) decreased smoke and carbon monoxide emissions by up to 71% and gave a 15% reduction in nitrogen oxide under certain conditions, attributable to the fuel’s high oxygen content and cetane rating. However, increased viscosity and decreased energy density of COB reduced overall efficiency at higher concentrations. This trade-off highlights the acceptability of COB mixes of up to 20% for use in current diesel engines without modification. The study validates the potential of COB to improve energy security and minimise harmful emissions, recommending its use in areas seeking sustainable and renewable energy transitions.