A review in the International Journal of Design Engineering, looks at the potential for biodiesel with biogas as a sustainable fuel to limit our reliance on fossil fuels and reduce pollution.
Sustainable energy solutions are high on the environmental agenda. Vehicles powered by electricity from sustainable sources such as wind and solar would seem to be the optimum solution. However, infrastructure to support such a paradigm shift in transport is not widespread, especially in the developing world. Until it is there is perhaps a need for alternatives for fossil fuels that can work with current internal combustion engines. Sanjay R. Mali of the Gujarat Technological University in India, and colleagues have carried out a comprehensive review of alternative fuels for internal combustion engines. Their study sheds light on the performance and environmental implications of biodiesel and biogas.
The team highlights the potential of biofuels in improving engine efficiency and reducing fuel consumption, while also addressing concerns about pollutant emissions. The findings have implications for the future of sustainable transportation and perhaps even energy production.
Biodiesel combined with biogas has emerged as a highly efficient and more environmentally friendly alternative to conventional diesel fuel. The review looks at results from studies comparing biodiesel and biogas with conventional fuels, focusing on key performance parameters such as brake thermal efficiency (BTE), brake specific fuel consumption (BSFC), and emissions like carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, and nitrogen oxides. The results indicate that blending 20% biodiesel with biogas achieves the best outcome without the need for extensive engine modifications. This fuel combination not only enhances engine performance but reduces pollution. In addition, little modification of the supply or distribution infrastructure, particularly at the consumer level, would be required to incorporate biofuels into the traditional petroleum-based liquid fuel supply chain.
The team points out that there are many crops that might be used for biodiesel production – Jatropha, Karanja, cotton, palm, coconut, rapeseed, sunflower, soybean, and peanut oils. India, in particular, has the capacity to grow and use such a diverse range of plant resources for biodiesel and biogas production, making it a prime candidate for exploring and harnessing these benefits.
As governments and industry need to prioritize clean energy solutions, this review offers a roadmap for the adoption of biodiesel with biogas as a viable and scalable alternative to neat fossil fuels.
Mali, S.R., Shah, P.R., Shah, D.R. and Mevada, D.D. (2023) ‘Comparative effect of biogas and biodiesel on performance and emission of diesel engine: a review’, Int. J. Design Engineering, Vol. 12, No. 1, pp.69–85.