Johnson Matthey Technology Review - Current Issue

The oscillatory baffled reactor (OBR) is one of the most promising reactor types for oxidative desulfurisation (ODS) due to high proven sulfur removal efficiency and improved mass and heat transport steps through the oxidation reaction. In Part III of this literature review, we review OBR design, scale-up, industrial application and economic considerations. Practical application of OBR for ODS process is described, catalytic systems are presented and the remaining challenges are outlined.

This study investigates the comparative performance and emission characteristics of four fuels: diesel, liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), neat biodiesel (mustard-based) and gasoline, using a single-cylinder, four-stroke engine operated at a constant speed of 1500 rpm under eight load conditions (0.25 kW to 2.00 kW). Experiments were conducted both on the stock diesel engine and on the same engine modified for spark ignition (SI) operation. Key performance indicators such as thermal efficiency (TE), fuel consumption and emissions (hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxides (NOx)) were measured under steady-state conditions. Outcome indicated that LPG produced the lowest hydrocarbon and carbon monoxide emissions, highlighting its potential as a clean-burning fuel. Biodiesel exhibited moderate emissions but recorded the highest NOx levels, likely due to its higher oxygen content. Diesel demonstrated the best fuel economy (lowest specific fuel consumption (SFC)) but higher emissions compared to LPG and biodiesel. Gasoline achieved the highest TE but exhibited the highest hydrocarbon and carbon monoxide emissions, making it the least environmentally favourable option. The findings support the viability of LPG and biodiesel as cleaner alternatives to conventional diesel and gasoline, with trade-offs in fuel economy and NOx requiring further optimisation.