The diversification of the energy matrix, combined with the use of renewable and
less polluting fuels in internal combustion engines, has encouraged numerous
research efforts both nationally and internationally. In this context, the
utilization of waste for biofuel production stands out as a promising
alternative, offering a clean and economically viable energy source. Biogas is
one of the most sustainable options and has been widely used in the industry.
However, it presents low lower heating values (LHV) and difficulties in burning
stoichiometric mixtures, which compromise engine performance, resulting in
higher specific fuel consumption and lower power output compared to fossil
fuels. To address this challenge, this study aimed to improve biogas combustion
in internal combustion engines by investigating the application of a new
pre-chamber ignition system in the combustion process and engine performance
parameters. For this, experimental tests were conducted with two biofuel
concentrations for evaluation: (100% CNG) and (85% CNG + 15% CO2),
enriching the stoichiometric mixture and applying calibration methodologies in a
single-cylinder engine adapted to operate with biogas, assessing engine
performance parameters and gas emissions. The application of pre-chamber
ignition showed significant improvements in energy efficiency, resulting in
approximately a 12% torque gain in stoichiometric mixtures, contributing to more
efficient combustion and a reduction in hydrocarbon emissions. The use of
mixtures in the range of 1.0 to 1.2 led to emission reductions between 60% and
35% compared to the engine without the pre-chamber, demonstrating the
pre-chamber’s ability to promote more complete combustion even in leaner
mixtures. The data obtained provide valuable insights for the development and
application of new technologies in biogas-powered internal combustion engines,
contributing to advancements in this research area.