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The Optimization of a Ternary Blend Using Grey Relation Analysis with the Taguchi Method for the Improved Performance and Reduction of Exhaust Emissions


by Ganesh G. Naik, Hanumant M. Dharmadhikari , Sunil A. More and Ioannis E. Sarris

Abstract

The demand for renewable and environmentally friendly fuels has prompted the exploration of alternative energy sources to replace conventional fossil fuels. This work investigates the optimization of a ternary blend comprising cottonseed oil (CSO), neem oil (NO), and orange peel Oil (OPO) for improved combustion characteristics, enhanced performance, and reduced exhaust emissions. Biodiesels like Cotton Seed Oil Methyl Ester (CSOME), Neem Oil Methyl Ester (NOME), and Orange Peel Oil Methyl Ester (OPOME) were made from CSO, NO, and OPO, respectively. The experimental results show major improvements in thermal efficiency and reductions in key pollutants, including NOx, CO, HC, and smoke. The best blending ratios are determined through a methodical process that employs optimization tools such as Grey Relation Analysis (GRA) with the Taguchi Method and ANOVA for validation. Then, various proportions of these biodiesels were tested in a CRDI engine to optimize the ternary blend proportions. The addition of 10% CSO and 10% OPO to NO reduces NOx emissions by 10% at CR17 as compared to diesel. Brake thermal efficiency improved by 9.08%. HC emission decreased by 10%. Average smoke opacity decreased by 27.65%. Cylinder pressure remains unchanged, but the Net Heat Release rate increased by 2%. Optimum parameters obtained are G2B10 Blend, Load 100%, CR17 and 10% EGR. The findings underscore the potential of this ternary blend as a viable alternative to conventional diesel fuel, with GRA using Taguchi proving to be an effective optimization tool for Multi-Criteria Decision Making (MCDM).




This work is supported in part by the European Union’s programme for research and innovation Horizon Europe under the Marie Skłodowska—Curie Action grant agreement No 101179991–VERDEDRIVE-HORIZON-MSCA-2023-SE-01-01.


Comments

Funded-by-the-EU

This project VerdeDrive has received funding from the European Union’s HORIZON-MSCA-2023-SE-01

under grant agreement No 101179991

“Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or [name of the granting authority]. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.”

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