Characterisation and Effect of Using Waste Polyethylene Oil and Diesel Fuel Blends in Compression Ignition Engine

Abstract

The increase in petroleum price, the problems associated with long-term availability of fossil fuels for automotive engine and environmental problems are of great concern for the world. These challenges have necessitated the need to investigate alternate source of fossil fuel. The aim of the present study was to investigate the possibilities of using Waste Polyethylene Fuel (WPF) as an alternative fuel for diesel engine. WPF is derived from waste polyethylene through pyrolysis. Tests were employed to characterise the fuel properties and to evaluate the performance and emission characteristics of a single-cylinder direct-injection diesel engine fuelled by 10% and 20% blends of WPF and Diesel Fuel (DF). The physico-chemical properties of the oil were analysed and found that it has almost similar properties to that of diesel. An experimental investigation was made to evaluate the performance, emission and combustion characteristics of diesel engine using different blends of 10%, 20% and pure diesel. It seems that there is improved performance and emission with the increase concentration of WPF in WPF-DF blends. The observations made in the present research paper are the part of ongoing research work. WPF and some other oil/fuels adaptability, performance and emission are presently under investigation.