Numerical one-dimensional investigations on a multi-cylinder spark ignition engine using hydrogen/ethanol, hydrogen/methanol and gasoline in dual fuel mode

Abstract

This study enhances the application of alternative fuels—specifically hydrogen, methanol, and ethanol—in a multi-cylinder gasoline engine. Using the one-dimensional simulation software AVL Boost, the study aims to predict the performance and emission characteristics of two distinct blends: hydrogen (10%) blended with methanol (90%) and hydrogen (10%) blended with ethanol (90%), in comparison to the baseline of 100% gasoline. The multi-cylinder spark ignition engine operates at variable speed under constant load conditions. The analysis of combustion characteristics involves monitoring pressure at different crank angles for all fuels. The anticipated performance parameters include power, torque, brake specific fuel consumption (BSFC), and brake mean effective pressure (BMEP). Notably, among the blended fuels, the hydrogen/ethanol blend exhibited superior efficiency, with a 20% increase in power compared to the hydrogen/methanol blend. The 90% ethanol with 10% hydrogen blend and the 90% methanol with 10% hydrogen blend both showed improved performance and contributed to reduced emissions compared to the 100% gasoline fuel. Favourable results were observed for CO, HC, and NOx emissions. While hydrogen combustion is carbon-free, the addition of ethanol and methanol led to slight carbon-based emissions, with a marginal increase in NOx for the hydrogen/methanol blend compared to the 100% gasoline fuel.