Investigation on the combustion characteristics of a diesel engine fueled with diesel–azides blends

In order to solve the problems associated with rapid combustion process under high engine speeds, benzyl azides were chosen as a fuel additive blended with diesel fuel. The physical and chemical properties of the fuel blends were analyzed. A single-cylinder engine was built and the in-cylinder working process was studied thoroughly for the new diesel–azides blends. Results show that, compared with pure diesel fuel, diesel–azides blends lead to higher heat release rate peak of premixed combustion, shorter combustion duration, and improved cycle efficiency. This indicates that diesel–azides blends have the potential for promoting rapid combustion. The current study provides a new way to improve the diesel combustion process and has laid a foundation for increasing engine power.

► A single-cylinder engine was built and the in-cylinder working process was studied.
► Diesel–azides blends lead to shorter combustion duration and higher cycle efficiency.
► Diesel–azides blends have the potential for promoting rapid combustion.
► The current study has laid a foundation for increasing engine power.