Synthesis, testing, and evaluation of efficiency and emissions properties of tamarind-based biodiesel with magnetite nanoparticles

The growing need for renewable and sustainable energy sources has prompted researchers to explore alternative fuels for engines traditionally powered by gasoline or diesel. Biodiesel derived from tamarind oil shows great potential as a sustainable fuel due to its renewable and eco-friendly nature. This investigation emphasizes the efficiency, emissions, and combustion characteristics of tamarind seed-based biodiesel blends with magnetite (Fe₃O₄) nanoparticles in a direct ignition engine. The magnetite nanoparticles in concentrations of 50 and 100 ppm are added to tamarind biodiesel blends with the help of an ultrasonicator. The prepared fuels were tested in a single-cylinder, four-stroke, vertical compression ignition engine. The experimental results revealed that the TME20M100 blend exhibits an increase in brake thermal efficiency by 5.85%, and SFC decreased by 6.18% with the maximum values of HRR and cylinder pressure are 44.5 J/°CA and 69.58 bar, respectively. Additionally, the TME20M100 blend exhibited a significant reduction of 27.32% in CO emissions, 7.93% in HC emissions, 4.05% in NOx emissions, and 3.23% in smoke emissions, as compared to the TME20. This study presents a promising approach to producing high-performance, eco-friendly biodiesel, contributing to the broader adoption of renewable energy sources.