Combustion thermodynamics in internal combustion engines: Performance, emission, and sustainability perspectives

Internal combustion (IC) engines use combustion as the basic technique to transform fuel chemical energy into mechanical energy. In the engine cylinder, air and gasoline undergo a complicated chemical reaction that results in heat and pressure, which transform mechanical energy into useful energy. A number of combustion-related elements are crucial for attaining the best engine performance, fuel economy, and pollution control. The proper regulation of the combustion process maximizes the fuel calorific value. On the other hand, incomplete combustion results in fuel waste and hazardous pollutants such particulate matter (PM), nitrogen oxides (NOx), carbon monoxide (CO), and hydrocarbons (HC). For accurate combustion control under current pollution regulations, such as BS-VI and Euro 6, new IC engine technology is required, such as exhaust after-treatment systems, enhanced fuel injection, and ignition timing. In addition to improving engine smoothness, dependability, and durability, consistent and uniform combustion also lessens engine knocking, vibration, and misfiring. Overheating, carbon particle deposits inside the cylinder, and excessive wear of internal IC engine components can all be avoided by maintaining ideal operating temperatures during combustion. Ongoing improvements in engine design, which include the development of efficient combustion chambers, turbocharging systems, and innovative modes like Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) and Homogeneous Charge Compression Ignition (HCCI), which aim to combine high efficiency with low pollution, are also supported by the study of combustion phenomena.