[01] Mohammed Abdelgadir Hassan Ibrahim, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Khartoum, Khartoum, Sudan. [02] Mustafa Abbas Mustafa, Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Khartoum, Khartoum, Sudan.

The purpose of this study is to investigate the performance and emission characteristics of a diesel engine using Jatropha oil-diesel blends (J10, J15 and J20 with 10%, 15% and 20% Jatropha oil respectively). Fuel properties for the blends were studied and compared with pure diesel fuel. The performance and emission characteristics were tested on a diesel engine (four stroke, four cylinders, indirect injection fuel system with Intercooler and Turbocharger). Fuel test results showed that blends densities for J10, J15 and J20 were 3.74%, 4.22% and 4.70% respectively, higher than that of diesel fuel. The kinematic viscosity for blends was 62.92%, 88.6% and 110.8% respectively, higher than that of diesel fuel. Calorific value for blends was reduced by 1.72%, 1.85% and 1.98% respectively relative to the value for diesel fuel. Flash point for blends was 17.5%, 45% and 77.5% higher than of diesel fuel. The engine power output and torque, for tested blends, increased at low engine speed (1600 rpm), but at higher speed (2200 rpm) decreased relative to diesel. Fuel consumption slightly increased for blends at both speeds. Brake thermal efficiency for blends increased at higher engine speed (2200 rpm), but at lower speed (1600 rpm) was less than diesel. There was also a slight increase in exhaust emissions (CO, NO, NO_x, SO₂) for blends at lower speeds however was less than diesel at medium and higher speeds.

Jatropha Oil-Diesel Blends, Engine Performance, Fuel Characteristics

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