An experimental and ANN analysis of ammonia energy integration in biofuel powered low-temperature combustion engine to enhance cleaner combustion
Krishnamoorthy Ramalingam, Suresh Vellaiyan, M. Satyanarayana Gupta, Beemkumar Nagappan, Pramod Kumar Faujdar, Davannendran Chandran, Revathi Raviadaran
Abstract
In the pursuit of global net-zero emissions targets and cleaner combustion technologies, researchers are increasingly turning to innovative solutions. Ammonia, as a carbon-free fuel, holds promise for achieving low emissions and efficient combustion. This study explores the potential synergies of various ammonia shares (20%, 40%, and 60%) combined with Citronella biofuel in a Low-Temperature Combustion (LTC) Reactivity Controlled Compression Ignition (RCCI) engine. Comparative analysis between a 40% ammonia blend Citronella biofuel (A40) and a Standard Diesel (SDL) in an RCCI engine demonstrates significant reductions in oxides of nitrogen (by 17%), carbon dioxide (by 6.6%), and smoke (by 9.8%), along with a notable enhancement in Brake Thermal Efficiency (BTE) by 5.4% for A40. The validation of results using an Artificial Neural Network (ANN) model shows robust coefficients of determination (97%), high R values (0.9945 to 0.9995), and low Root Mean Square Error values (ranging from 0.0219 to 0.0483). These findings strongly support the efficacy of the A40 blend, positioning it as a promising and viable alternative fuel for achieving cleaner combustion in LTC-RCCI engines. ➢ Ammonia-Citronella blend reduces oxides of nitrogen by 17% in RCCI engines ➢ A40 blend increases Brake Thermal Efficiency by 5.4% over standard diesel ➢ ANN model shows high accuracy with R values up to 0.9995 for performance prediction ➢ A40 blend lowers carbon dioxide emissions by 6.6% and smoke by 9.8% ➢ Study highlights A40 as a viable, carbon-free fuel for cleaner combustion