Effect of Hybrid Nano components (Al2O3+MgO) on Engine Performance

The increasing global demand for sustainable energy solutions and stringent vehicular emission regulations necessitate the development of advanced fuel additives for internal combustion engines. This research work investigated the effects of hybrid nano-components, specifically aluminium oxide (Al₂O₃) and magnesium oxide (MgO), on diesel engine performance characteristics. The study involved synthesis of Al₂O₃ and MgO nanoparticles using sol-gel method, followed by comprehensive characterization using X-ray Diffraction (XRD), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), and Energy Dispersive X-ray (EDX) analysis. Hybrid nano-additive fuel blends were prepared through ultrasonication dispersion technique at optimized concentrations ranging from 25-100 ppm. Engine performance evaluation was conducted on a single-cylinder diesel engine test setup equipped with AVL dynamometer, emissions analyser, and data acquisition system. The experimental results demonstrated significant improvements in engine performance parameters. Brake Thermal Efficiency (BTE) increased by up to 24.7%, while Brake Specific Fuel Consumption (BSFC) reduced by 25% compared to baseline fuel. Substantial emission reductions were achieved including 80% decrease in carbon monoxide (CO), 70.94% reduction in unburned hydrocarbons (HC), and 55.3% reduction in smoke emissions. The hybrid Al₂O₃+MgO combination exhibited superior performance compared to individual nanoadditives due to synergistic effects. The performance improvements were attributed to enhanced fuel atomization, improved combustion kinetics, micro-explosion phenomena, and catalytic effects of nano-additives. Tribological analysis revealed friction coefficient reductions up to 22.67% and wear scar diameter reductions of 20.75%, indicating enhanced lubrication properties. The study concludes that hybrid Al₂O₃+MgO nano-components represent a promising solution for optimizing diesel engine performance while simultaneously reducing environmental impact, offering significant potential for sustainable transportation applications.