Abstract:
With growing emphasis on clean and sustainable energy globally, the investigation into alternative fuels for internal combustion engines has intensified. Hydrogen is considered a promising alternative to conventional hydrocarbon fuel due to its high calorific value, wide flammability range, and almost negligible carbon emissions. This article investigates the minor but essential modifications that need to be made to standard spark-ignition engines to run efficiently on hydrogen-petrol dual-fuel modes to achieve better performance with reduced environmental impact.
The present work comprehensively analyses combustion behaviour, performance characteristics, and emission characteristics of a 4-stroke spark-ignition engine running on different blends of hydrogen. For smooth and efficient operation of hydrogen, a number of specific modifications were carried out: introduction of hydrogen through carburettor or injector ports, raising the compression ratio to accommodate the enhanced combustion characteristics of hydrogen, and enhancement in the cooling system of the engine to maintain the high flame temperature under controlled condition. Experimental investigations showed a great improvement in all-around engine performance, marked by an increased brake thermal efficiency, along with an improved volumetric efficiency, especially at low and medium loads. A considerable reduction in specific fuel consumption was also achieved. Emission testing showed a drastic reduction in CO and UBHC and only traces of NOx emissions due to the clean combustion characteristics of hydrogen.
Results of this research indicate that conventional spark-ignition engines can operate efficiently on hydrogen-petrol blends in the range of 20-50% hydrogen with minimal design changes. These results point out the flexibility of current engine platforms and confirm hydrogen as a feasible, efficient, and clean fuel for future transportation systems.
Biography:
Dr. S Nawazish Mehdi is a distinguished Academician and researcher with over 40 years of teaching experience. He has held various key positions, including Principal Investigator for AICTE Research Projects, Ex-DEAN, Ex-HOD, and Ex-Director of RSD. Currently, he serves as a Ph.D. supervisor at Osmania University, JNTUH, Mewar University, and Singhania University. His expertise and influence extend beyond academia as a Member of the Board of Studies for JNTUH (Energy Studies), LIET (A), and several other institutions. Dr. Mehdi's contributions to research are significant, particularly in the field of IC engines and renewable energy & sustainable engineering and automobiles. He was awarded many funded research projects from Central and State Government, Ex: A ₹6 Lakhs research grant by AICTE under the R&D Scheme (2002-03) for his project on "Design Modifications in IC Engines to Use Hydrogen Fuel," with the completion report submitted in April 2006. He has also led various innovative projects funded by the A.P. State Council of Science & Technology, including Solar Electric Cars, Hybrid Vehicles, Regenerative Braking Systems, and Variable Compression Ratio (VCR) Engines. A prolific researcher, Dr. Mehdi has guided more than 14 Ph.D. candidates and is currently mentoring 7 others. His academic contributions include over 95 publications in international and national journals and conferences. Additionally, he has authored five textbooks, had 3 patents granted, and one patent recently published. He has also served as a reviewer for numerous Scopus and Web of Science-indexed journals, further solidifying his position as a thought leader in engineering research. Dr. Mehdi's dedication and achievements have earned him several prestigious awards, including the Outstanding Researcher Award (2024) from IEOM Society International, the Engineering Seva Ratna Award from ECIF, a Gold Medal from the Madina Education Society, and the Life Achievement Award etc. His other accolades include the Man of the Year Award (2002), Best Faculty Counselor Award (2022), and Recognition as one of the Leading Engineers of the World (2007) etc. He has actively contributed to knowledge dissemination by attending over 52 conferences, workshops, seminars, training programs, and FDPs. He has delivered impactful sessions at National and International Events as Guest Lecture. Currently serving as Vice-President of QCT, Dr. Mehdi continues to Inspire and Shape the future of Engineering Education and Research.
