Enhancing ammonia decomposition in ammonium hydroxide/diesel emulsion through hybrid nanocomposite and optimization for improved and greener combustion

In this study, a hybrid nanocomposite was synthesized and characterized to intensify ammonia decomposition in ammonium hydroxide (AH) emulsified diesel fuel. The optimal concentrations of AH and zinc oxide/carbon nanotube (ZnO/CNT) nanocomposite in diesel fuel were evaluated using response surface methodology for effectual and greener combustion. The range of AH concentration was varied from 10 % to 30 %, and ZnO/CNT nanocomposite concentration ranged from 50 ppm to 150 ppm in diesel fuel. Validation experiments were performed to confirm the optimized parameters' competence compared to regular diesel fuel (RDF). Fourier Transform Infrared and X-ray Diffraction analyses verified successful ZnO/CNT nanocomposite synthesis with desired structural and chemical properties. Optimization results indicated that an 17.2 % volume concentration of AH and 82.3 ppm of ZnO/CNT nanocomposite in RDF yielded efficient combustion with reduced emissions. Validation results showed that the inclusion of 17 % AH in RDF decreased engine brake thermal efficiency (BTE) by 11.1 % and increased brake specific fuel consumption (BSFC), hydrocarbon (HC), carbon monoxide (CO), and oxides of nitrogen (NOx) emissions by 11.3 %, 9.1 %, 9.9 %, and 3 %, respectively. Furthermore, the presence of the nanocomposite (82.3 ppm) enhanced BTE by 10.1 % and reduced BSFC, HC, CO, and NOx emissions by 6.9 %, 6.2 %, 6.9 %, and 5.9 %, respectively. The advancements in fuel additives, such as ZnO/CNT nanocomposites in AH emulsified diesel fuel, have the potential to create more fuel-efficient and cleaner diesel engines. These improvements can significantly contribute to sustainable energy solutions.