Investigating Ethanol-Diesel Mixtures for Improved Compression Ignition (CI) Engine Performance: An Experimental Approach

This study aims to assess the feasibility of utilizing a B20 blend, consisting of 20% ethanol and 80% diesel, as a potential alternative to diesel fuel in a compression ignition engine with a single cylinder. Ethanol, a commonly utilized biofuel, is renowned for its elevated oxygen content, which contributes to its efficacy as an oxygenator, hence augmenting fuel combustion and mitigating pollutants. The primary objective of our study is to evaluate the long-term durability and corrosion impacts of B20 fuel in comparison to a conventional diesel-only model. In a series of eight tests, each lasting 12.5 hours, it was observed that the B20 engine demonstrated enhanced long-term mechanical durability. Nevertheless, the introduction of ethanol blending resulted in the dilution and contamination of lubricants, as indicated by the observed rise in component wear and carbon deposition over a 100-hour testing period. Viscosity and contamination tests were employed to detect the presence of impurities. The wear test revealed a consistent increase of 7% in iron (Fe) content per test, while sulfate contamination exhibited a growth rate of 8.7% per test. The present study underscores the potential of B20 as a viable substitute for diesel fuel, and proposes prospective directions for further research to enhance its efficacy.