Process optimization of spirulina microalgae biodiesel synthesis using RSM coupled GA technique: a performance study of a biogas-powered dual-fuel engine

• Published in: International journal of environmental science and technology (Tehran) Vol. 21; no. 1; pp. 169 - 188
• Main Authors: Ahmad, A., Yadav, A. K., Singh, A.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Berlin/Heidelberg Springer Berlin Heidelberg 01.01.2024
• Subjects: algorithms; Aquatic Pollution; biodiesel; biogas; catalysts; diesel engines; Earth and Environmental Science; Ecotoxicology; energy; Environment; Environmental Chemistry; Environmental Science and Engineering; mass flow; microalgae; Original Paper; response surface methodology; smoke; Soil Science & Conservation; temperature; transesterification; Waste Water Technology; Water Management; Water Pollution Control; Biodiesel production; Genetic algorithm; Dual-fuel mode; Biogas; Performance; RSM; Emissions
• ISSN: 1735-1472; 1735-2630
• DOI: 10.1007/s13762-023-04948-z

This study aims to predict and optimize the biodiesel production yield and its effective utilization in a biogas-powered dual-fuel mode diesel engine. The transesterification process is optimized through response surface methodology and a genetic algorithm (GA). By using Central Composite Design, an L30 orthogonal array was developed to explore the significance of four process parameters: molar ratio (3:1–9:1), catalyst concentration (0.5–1.5% wt.), reaction temperature (45–65 °C), reaction time (45–105 min), and their combined effect on biodiesel production. The optimal conditions for producing biodiesel through GA were a molar ratio of 7.62:1 with a catalyst concentration of 0.50 wt%, a reaction temperature of 65 °C, a reaction time of 105 min, and an optimized yield of 98.98% (by weight). This study also intends to determine the viability of using microalgae biodiesel and diesel blends (BD10D90 and BD20D80) as pilot fuel and biogas as a primary fuel by changing its mass flow rate (0.16 L/min, 0.33 L/min, and 0.50 L/min) in the dual fuel engine mode. The BSFC of the engine was seen to have increased, although the BTE was significantly lower in the dual-fuel mode compared to standard diesel. The combined effect of biodiesel and biogas reduced NO x and smoke emissions; however, HC and CO emissions were on the higher side. Thus, introducing biogas as a primary fuel and blending biodiesel with diesel as a pilot fuel in the engine may have the potential to meet future energy needs. Graphical abstract