Green fuel production from Pistacia Khinjuk and its engine test analysis as a promising alternative

In this study, regarding the importance of identifying suitable raw materials in each region, biodiesel production was investigated with the novelty of using a new plant source and utilization of an optimized reactor with the aid of a nano-catalyst. For the first time, biodiesel fuel was produced from Kolkhung (Pistacia Khinjuk) seed with oil content of 35-40% in a Batch reactor optimized by a helix mixer. After doing the gas chromatography analysis and ASTM standard tests, the biodiesel was mixed with diesel fuel (B5, B10, B20, B40 and B100) and the effect of these blended fuels was investigated on the fuel consumption, emissions and exhausted gas temperature in a diesel engine. The results showed that with the increment of biodiesel ratio in fuel blend, pollutants level of CO, HC and smoke opacity decrease (up to 42%, 36% and 45% respectively) comparing diesel fuel due to the improvement of the combustion process, while resulted in increased nitrogen oxides (NOx) up to 14%; however, CO2 and O2 remained approximately constant. Moreover, as in the exhaust gas temperature, the fuel consumption increased, with the maximum growth rate reaching 25% for pure biodiesel. On the whole, considering the compromise between the performance and emissions variables, it can be concluded that Kolkhung oil biodiesel and its blends with conventional diesel fuel can be used as an alternative fuel without engine modifications and changes.