Alternative Fuel Mixture Waste Cooking Oil (WCO) and Corn Oil: Transforming Hazard into Renewable Energy

Abstract

This study investigated the potential of an alternative fuel mixture comprised of Waste Cooking Oil (WCO) and Corn Oil to convert hazardous waste into a renewable energy source. Converting WCO into renewable energy had the potential to enhance energy security and reduce dependence on increasingly expensive hydrocarbon fuels, which were rising in price. The research conducted a comprehensive analysis of the effects of blending WCO biodiesel with corn oil on engine performance and emissions. The research methodology included two primary components: the transesterification process for biodiesel production and experimental test of biodiesel in diesel engines to evaluate performance and emissions. Data collected during engine operation, such as wattage, RPM, electric current, voltage, time duration, and fuel consumption, were used to calculate torque, specific fuel consumption, and engine thermal efficiency. Additionally, emissions tests were carried out, with a focus on variations in biodiesel samples. The research findings revealed that biodiesel samples containing 50% WCO (B50) exhibited significantly improved specific fuel consumption (SFC) at 678.1 g/kWh, compared to pure diesel (B0) at 852.4 g/kWh, resulting in a saving of 175.3 g/kWh. Furthermore, B50 demonstrated a higher torque output, measuring 3.69 N.m, compared to 3.35 N.m for B0, indicating a 0.34 N.m increase in torque for B50. Moreover, B50 achieved a thermal efficiency 22% higher than that of B0, reaching 22% compared to 20%. In terms of exhaust emissions, B50 displayed a significantly lower concentration (N) of 50.5% compared to B0, which recorded an (N) Value of 98.3%. this research provides valuable insights into the utilization of WCO waste for biodiesel production, offering an environmentally friendly alternative that matches or even surpasses the performance of traditional hydrocarbon fuels. It underscores the potential of WCO and corn oil blends as a sustainable energy source, with notable benefits in efficiency and emissions reduction.