Title:
Biogas Fuel for Internal Combustion Engines in South Africa
Author(s):
Mukumba, P., Makaka, G., Mamphweli, S.
Document(s):
Paper
Poster
Abstract:
Biogas from anaerobic digestion of wastes is an alternative energy source of energy in South Africa and is a good alternative to petroleum fuels such as petrol, diesel and kerosene and can be used in internal combustion engines because of its mixing ability with air.Biogas is composed primarily of methane and carbon dioxide. The energetic potential of biogas is a function of the amount of methane in the biogas which determines its energy value. The aim of the study is to review past research work on biogas fuelled internal combustion engines and address current research needs to promote its expansion in South Africa.A detailed analysis of previous work on performance of biogas fuelled engines is given. From the research findings biogas from anaerobic digestion is the most important renewable source of energy that can be used to power internal combustion engines in its raw state and purified state. In addition, biogas as an internal combustion fuel reduces exhaust gas emissions into the atmosphere and increases engines performance as compared to fossil fuels. Furthermore, internal combustion engines need more modification and tuning to increase efficiency for tolerance of unpurified biogas and extend their lifespan and time between engine overhauls.
Keywords:
biogas, engine, methane, modifications, engine efficiency
Topic:
Biomass Conversion Technologies for Liquid and Gaseous Fuels, Chemicals and Materials
Subtopic:
Biomethane
Event:
25th European Biomass Conference and Exhibition
Session:
3CV.1.17
Pages:
1353 - 1357
ISBN:
978-88-89407-17-2
Paper DOI:
10.5071/25thEUBCE2017-3CV.1.17
Price:
FREE
