Performance and Emission Characteristics of Jatropha Biodiesel in a PSZ-Coated Low Heat Rejection Diesel Engine

Abstract

The present study investigates the performance and emission characteristics of Jatropha biodiesel operated in a Low Heat Rejection (LHR) diesel engine coated with Partially Stabilized Zirconia (PSZ). The PSZ thermal barrier coating was applied on the piston crown to reduce heat loss and enhance in-cylinder temperature. Experiments were conducted on a single-cylinder, four-stroke compression ignition engine at varying load conditions. Jatropha methyl ester (JME) and its blends were compared with conventional diesel fuel. The results indicate that the PSZ-coated LHR engine improves brake thermal efficiency (BTE) and reduces brake specific fuel consumption (BSFC) compared to the conventional engine. Emission analysis revealed significant reductions in carbon monoxide (CO), unburned hydrocarbons (HC), and smoke opacity, while a marginal increase in nitrogen oxides (NOx) was observed due to elevated combustion temperature. The findings suggest that combining Jatropha biodiesel with PSZ-based LHR technology enhances thermal efficiency and promotes cleaner combustion.