IISER-Bhopal Scientists Develop Eco-Friendly Diesel From Banana Peels And Plastic Waste, Promise To Boost Engine Efficiency

Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh): Scientists of Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER) Bhopal, have proved that alternative diesel fuel can be prepared by mixing organic and plastic wastes.

This bio-diesel developed by using co-pyrolysis technology and it is not only cheaper than traditional diesel, but can also become a safe option for the environment.

Fuel successfully used in diesel vehicles

Researchers claimed that this fuel has been successfully used in diesel vehicles, which has not only reduced fuel consumption but also improved engine efficiency. This research work was led by Dr. Shankar Chakma, Assistant Professor, Department of Chemical Engineering, IISER Bhopal.

Bablu Alawa and Aman Kumar participated in the research with him. Scientists mixed banana peels and plastic waste in the ratio of 25:75 and heated it at a controlled temperature to obtain pyro-oil (liquid fuel).

How is it made?

Research has found that this fuel can be used in vehicles by mixing it with diesel up to 20 percent. It has been published in the Journal of the Energy Institute and Energy Nexus.

According to the researchers, an average of 850 grams of liquid, 140 grams of gas and 10 grams of charcoal are obtained from one kilogram of banana peels and plastic waste. Gas can be used for cooking, while charcoal can be used for water purification. Liquid fuel has been prepared to be used as an alternative to diesel.

Quality and characteristics of fuel

This pyro-oil is rich in many types of hydrocarbons such as olefins, paraffins, aromatics, esters and alcohols. About 12 percent oxygenated compounds and long-chain esters have been found in it, which increase its heat value to about 55 megajoules per kilogram.

It gives much better heat than normal diesel. Apart from this, this fuel is easily usable even in cold weather, as its pour point is up to -25 degrees Celsius. Also, its flash point was found to be higher by 4 degrees Celsius, due to which it is considered safer.

Successful in engine testing too

During the research, this alternative fuel was used in diesel engines, in which it was found that fuel consumption was reduced and BTE (Brake Thermal Efficiency) increased significantly. This proves that this fuel is not only economical compared to diesel, but is also effective in terms of performance.