Computational investigation of equivalence ratio effects on performance and emissions in a dual-fuel homogeneous charge compression ignition (HCCI) engine with 90% n-dodecane and 10% ethanol

As the automotive industry seeks environmentally friendly and fuel-efficient solutions, a significant transformation towards the Dual Fuel Homogeneous Charge Compression Ignition (DF-HCCI) Engine. It emerges as a highly promising and revolutionary approach to internal combustion engines. This paper provides a comprehensive Computational Investigation on the influence of Equivalence Ratio (ϕ) variations on the performance and emissions of a DF-HCCI engine, utilising a blend of 90% n-dodecane (premix) and 10% ethanol (spry injection). Through simulations, the study explores ϕ ranging from 0.45 to 0.70, providing a detailed analysis of their impact on crucial engine parameters. Results indicate a non-monotonic behaviour in piston work, with an initial increase followed by a decline beyond an optimal point due to incomplete combustion. CO emissions exhibit a general increase with higher ϕ, attributed to reduced air availability for complete combustion. CO2 emissions display a non-monotonic trend, peaking at ϕ = 0.5, indicative of a complex interplay between combustion temperature and completeness. NOx emissions decrease with rising ϕ, as higher temperatures favour NOx formation. Soot emissions decrease with increasing ϕ , correlating with lower combustion temperatures. This investigation provides insights into the relationship between ϕ and DF-HCCI engine characteristics, offering an optimising engine efficiency and mitigating environmental impact.