Publication

Abstract : The proposed work aims to give a comprehensive account of the algae to the energy conversion process in the microalgae namely Monoraphidium sp., and Chlorella sorokiniana. We started by investigating the in-situ growing conditions and biodiesel process optimization followed by the emission parameter testing studies. Notably, Chlorella sorokiniana biomass exhibited better yield over the Monoraphidium sp. and further, fatty acid profile studies also indicated favorable results for Chlorella sp. Consequently, the suitability of biodiesel produced from Chlorella sp is tested in diesel engine applications. Equally important is the emission parameter testing that includes studies on exhaust gas temperature, brake specific fuel consumption, brake thermal efficiency, and the investigations on carbon, and hydrocarbon and nitrogen oxide emissions. Analysis of lipid profile and emission studies have proven that the biodiesel proposed in the current study delivered higher lipid recovery, greater brake thermal efficiency, and reduced CO and HC emissions. However, nitrogen oxides and carbon dioxide emissions are seen to be slightly higher than diesel fuel. On this basis, we conclude that Chlorella sorokiniana can be actively pursued as a renewable substitute for petroleum diesel.