LIFECYCLE ANALYSIS OF IC ENGINE

Abstract

The automotive industry predominantly relies on fossil fuels like oil, coal, and gas, producing substantial amounts of greenhouse gases (GHGs) that contribute to severe climate change. The adverse consequences of environmental degradation are increasingly evident in the form of ambient air pollutants. Therefore, continued efforts are imperative to mitigate environmental impacts and reduce the transportation sector's dependence on conventional fuels. Since their inception in the real world, IC engines have made significant strides in enhancing fuel efficiency, thanks to innovations like Common Rail Direct Injection (CRDi), Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPFI), Variable Valve Timing (VVT), and Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI). These technologies minimize wastage, optimize combustion, and improve overall engine efficiency, reducing emissions. Nevertheless, IC engines still release pollutants, and stringent emissions regulations drive ongoing advancements. The compatibility of biodiesel with existing diesel engines with minimal or no modifications underscores its viability. Despite challenges, IC engines will persist owing to their durability, infrastructure advantages, long-range capabilities, and cost benefits. However, complying with emissions standards remains a challenge. To compete with Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs), IC engines need to enhance efficiency and emissions reduction. Plug-in, as well as hybridization technology, can address these concerns, while cleaner alternative fuels like biodiesel provide a path to reduce their environmental impact. The future of IC engines hinges on a balance of innovation, compliance, and environmental awareness. The present study incorporates a two-phase LCA. First, it conducts an LCA of biodiesel produced from Karanja and microalgae feedstock. Subsequently, it assesses a generic diesel engine manufactured under Indian conditions using the LCA approach. As biodiesel emerges as a viable substitute for fossil fuels, it becomes essential to identify and assess potential non-edible feedstocks concerning their ecological significance as well as the energy needed for the production of biodiesel. The LCA is employed from the initial stages of production to disposal to evaluate the environmental impacts and energy needed for biodiesel derived from two types of feedstock: Karanja and Microalgae. The environmental impacts of IC engines are assessed using the ISO- 14040 procedure and recommendations, involving four major steps: goal and scope definition, inventory analysis, impact assessment, and result interpretation. The energy ratios of Karanja feedstock and microalgae are examined, illustrating the possibility of a significant decrease in greenhouse gas emissions, particularly when combined with a sensitivity analysis. The energy ratio of Karanja feedstock is precisely determined to be 5.67, while the energy ratio of microalgae is around 2.49. Although different feedstocks may have opposing environmental characteristics, Karanja demonstrates improved results in LCA when compared to microalgae. For example, Karanja has a net energy value (NEV) of 64.1, whereas microalgae has a higher energy utilization with an NEV of 286.19, albeit it achieves a higher yield. The LCA of an internal combustion engine (IC Engine) was also conducted in case of a generic diesel engine produced in India. Life cycle inventory is conducted for many phases, including manufacturing, operation, and disposal. The numerical data reveals that Climate Change Potential (CCP) has the most significant environmental effect, measuring at 363513.60 kgCO2eq. It is followed by Fossil resource Scarcity, which stands at 58358.51 kgOileq, and Acidification Potential (AP) at 18193.93 kgSO2eq. In the event of using pure diesel as fuel, the Photochemical Ozone Formation Potential (POFP) contributes greatly with 259.16 kgNOX-eq and the Fine Particulate Matter Formation (FPMF) contributes heavily with 501.4492 kgPMeq. The research emphasizes that the use phase of the engine is the most energy-intensive and ecologically harmful stage throughout its life cycle. The numerical data shows a strong correlation between the main energy demand during the consumption phase and the generation of diesel fuel. Specifically, the CCP, AP, FPMF, and POFP are strongly linked to the engine operating processes.