Optimization of Performance and Exhaust Emissions of a Spark-Ignition (SI) Engine Fueled with Bioethanol-Gasoline Blends using TOPSIS Methodology

Abstract

Energy crises and environment impact forced governments and countries to develop utilizing renewable energy in different forms. One of the first forms of alternative energy which was in use is bioethanol which is using in SI (spark ignition) engines as pure fuel or after blending with gasoline. The selection of proper blending of bioethanol plays an important role in the production of alternative energy. In this investigation, the use of TOPSIS (Technique for Order Performance by Similarity to Ideal Solution) to select the optimal value of the engine performance and exhaust pollutants which run at various bio-ethanol-gasoline fuel blends, namely E5, E10, E15 and E20. Obtained results indicate that performance parameters (i.e. torque, power) for different bioethanol-gasoline blends improved. It is evident from results that there is an increase in NOX as well Carbon dioxide (CO2) emission while UBHC and CO decreased. TOPSIS methods indicate that a mixture ratio equal to 20% (E20) and an engine speed equal to 3000 rpm were chosen to be optimal working condition.