Fabrication of Eco-Friendly SI Engine Using Acetylene Gas as Alternative Fuel by a Mixture of Water and Calcium Carbide

Abstract

This paper presents a detailed investigation of the use of acetylene gas produced from calcium carbide (CaC₂) as an alternative fuel for internal combustion engines. The study aims to assess the potential of acetylene as a sustainable and renewable fuel source and its viability as a replacement for traditional gasoline and diesel fuels. To achieve this, the behaviour of spark ignition (SI) engine was examined using acetylene as the primary fuel and an alcohol-containing fuel as the secondary fuel to prevent engine knocking. The experimental results showed that the modified engine with acetylene produced high brake power, torque and thermal efficiency compared to a conventional gasoline engine. Moreover, the emissions of hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide, and nitrogen oxides were significantly lower than those of a gasoline engine. This suggests that acetylene has the potential to become a more effective and environmentally friendly alternative fuel option. The study concludes that the use of acetylene as a renewable and hydrogen-like fuel source could provide a sustainable solution for reducing dependence on traditional gasoline and diesel fuels. The modified engine with acetylene as the primary fuel and an alcohol-containing fuel as the secondary fuel was found to be economically and ecologically viable, with reduced operating costs and minimal emissions. Future research could explore the optimization of engine performance with different fuel blends and operating conditions, as well as the development of practical and cost-effective methods for producing acetylene fuel. Overall, the study provides valuable insights into the potential of acetylene as an alternative fuel source for internal combustion engines, and its role in promoting sustainable development, energy conservation, efficiency, management, and environmental protection.