Abstract
This study investigates the utilization of an α-MnO(2)/nanocarbon ball (NCB) additive to enhance the performance of second-, third-, and fourth-generation biodiesels (SSGB, PVB, and GMCB). Various tests including XRD, XPS, TEM, HRTEM, BET, torque and power measurements, EGT, BTE, emissions analysis (CO(2), CO, HC, soot, and NOx), and BSFC were conducted. The combination of GMCB5N50 with α-MnO(2)/NCB yielded the highest torque (35.77 N m) and power (6.47 kW), indicating an improved engine performance. GMCB5N50 exhibited efficient combustion with a peak pressure of 76.04 bar. The nanoadditive also demonstrated significant reduction in BSFC, achieving up to 34% improvement in fuel efficiency. When GMCB20N50 was used, the highest BTE values were observed, reaching approximately 39.5%. EGT values for GMCB5N50 were only slightly elevated compared to pure diesel. Notably, GMCB20N50 showcased substantial decreases in emissions, including carbon dioxide (CO(2): 55% reduction), carbon monoxide (CO: 35% reduction), hydrocarbons (HC: 58% reduction), and soot (98% reduction), indicating a promising direction for the development of low-emission alternative fuels. The investigation of the effects of the oxygen lattice, surface area, and oxygen adsorption on engine performance and emission reduction revealed their positive contributions. These findings highlight the potential of the studied α-MnO(2)/NCB additive for improving biodiesel performance and advancing the development of sustainable and environmentally friendly fuels.