Optimized dual-fuel technology: Evaluating performance and emissions in a producer gas–diesel engine

In remote regions, diesel generators are a primary energy source but are major contributors to pollutant and greenhouse gas emissions, raising environmental and public health concerns. Producer gas (syngas), a renewable and cleaner alternative fuel, offers a promising solution to reduce diesel dependency and emissions, particularly in rural and off-grid areas. In this study, a downdraft gasifier was developed to evaluate the performance and emission characteristics of a producer gas–diesel dual-fuel engine operating at a reduced compression ratio. Experiments were conducted on a modified double-cylinder diesel engine to analyze brake thermal efficiency, specific fuel consumption, and combustion behavior under varying load conditions. Emission measurements focused on carbon monoxide (CO), carbon dioxide (CO 2 ), sulfur dioxide (SO 2 ), nitric oxide (NO), nitrogen dioxide (NO 2 ), and particulate matter. Results indicated a substantial reduction in diesel consumption when operating in dual-fuel mode using wood chips as feedstock, along with significantly lower NOx emissions compared to conventional diesel operation. Although a slight drop in brake thermal efficiency was observed, the environmental benefits and fuel savings highlight the potential of producer gas in dual-fuel applications. This study provides valuable insights into optimizing internal combustion engines for cleaner, more sustainable energy production through compression ratio adjustment and renewable fuel integration.