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This article addresses the effect of combustible components (hydrogen and methane) of a producer gas fuel on in-cylinder combustion, performance, and emissions of a modified spark ignition engine. Owing to the fluctuating tendency of an onsite gasifier produced producer gas composition, a dynamic behavior in engine combustion and performance was expected. Thus, the present study was motivated to investigate the magnitude of the engine response variables against the known fluctuating producer gas composition trend. Experiments were conducted using bottled fueled producer gas on 359 cm3 engine capacity at a compression ratio of 11:1 and 1500 rpm. Further, the engine was operated under naturally aspirated mode and close to stoichiometry. The analysis based on acquired in-cylinder data revealed that, the fractions of hydrogen and methane have a profound effect on combustion duration and specific fuel consumption. Further, the producer gas blends, leading to reduction in fuel gas consumption were identified. On emission front, carbon-monoxide and nitric oxide pollutants were predominant but within prescribed central pollution control board norms of India, especially at full load engine condition and hydrogen enriched blend respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The depletion of petroleum resources, rise in fuel prices and stringent emission norms over diesel engines play a vital role in economic development of country like India, which attracts the researchers to search for novel alternate fuel for diesel. The present experimental work explores the effect of 1-butanol with rich potential of tamarind seed biodiesel for diesel engine applications. This investigation focuses on the effect of butanol as an oxygenated fuel additive to tamarind biodiesel at different concentrations like 5%, 10%, and 15% on volume basis to examine engine characteristics. The test results indicate the addition of 5% butanol to biodiesel blend had shown considerable enhancement in brake thermal efficiency, which is 3.21% over the tamarind biodiesel blend. It is also found marginal reductions in exhaust emissions such as carbon monoxide, hydrocarbon, and smoke opacity by 7.25%, 6.52%, and 6.2% respectively when contrasted with tamarind biodiesel blend at peak load operation. However, marginal increment found for nitrogen oxide emissions at all load conditions. Hence, the use of oxygenate additive to tamarind biodiesel blend could be critically considered as a prospective renewable fuel source. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article investigates the recovery of typical wastes (coal slime, sawdust, cardboard and tire pyrolysis residue) as part of high-moisture slurry fuels. Using a laboratory furnace, the ignition and combustion characteristics of fuels as well as NO x and SO x emissions were determined. Using multiple-criteria decision-making (MCDM) methods and experimental results, we access the performance of four different slurry fuels in comparison with bituminous coal. The novelty of the study is based on the following features: we consider a unique set of parameters of the fuels (economic, environmental, safety and energy indicators), as well as three countries for their potential use (the USA, India and Russia); three different methods for calculating the efficiency indicator of each fuel were used. Despite rather low energy performance, the summarizing efficiency indicator of waste-based slurries was 53–93% higher than that of coal. The use of cardboard in the composition of a fuel blend showed the best complex result (the increase in the efficiency indicator was 80–93% relative to coal). The least promising additive was the pyrolysis residue of automobile tires. Its addition resulted in a 10–15% decrease in overall efficiency relative to a slurry without additives. The research results are useful for optimizing the component composition of waste-based slurries, technical and economic development of projects for the incineration of various wastes in the form of high-moisture fuel slurries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

River island (locally Charland) of lower Gangetic plain between Rajmahal and the Farakka barrage in India is the human occupancy of the river bank erosion evicted people, but these areas are prone to numerous problems such as river bank erosion (due to massive channel shifting), flooding, poor accessibility, limited livelihood options etc. This study assessed the livelihood vulnerability using Livelihood Vulnerability Index (LVI) framework, comprising several components and sub-components. Total 640 households were selected and collected information about socio-demographic profile, livelihood strategies, water, health, food and natural disaster status. The contributing factors (exposure, sensitivity and adaptive capacity) were integrated to estimate the livelihood vulnerability index using the LVI and LVI-IPCC approaches. Results suggested that Gadai char households are more vulnerable to water security, food security, health status and natural hazards compared to Bhutni char. But in the case of livelihood strategies, Bhutni char is more vulnerable to Gadai char. Due to low adaptive capacity, both char dwellers are very vulnerable to natural hazards. Based on the LVI score Gadai char is more vulnerable than Bhutni char. The LVI-IPCC vulnerability result also reflects that Gadai char is more vulnerable compared to Bhutni char. The findings will help to frame policies and programs of government and non-government organizations to reduce vulnerability and enhance the adaptive capacity of the rural char community. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, three high-ash Indian sub-bituminous coals of different thermal maturities from three different open cast mines of Raniganj basin, eastern India, were studied to understand their combustion and pyrolysis behavior. The combustion analyses were performed under three different heating rates (5°C, 10°C, and 15°C/min). From the thermograms of TG-DTG pyrolysis curves, it was observed that the overall pyrolysis reaction can be deduced into four different temperature regions with each region showing unique properties, and those regions are inherent moisture loss, prior to primary pyrolysis, primary pyrolysis, and secondary pyrolysis regions. The main pyrolysis reaction occurs in the primary pyrolysis region for all the samples but a significant devolatilization has also been seen for the early oil window mature noncoking coal in the secondary pyrolysis region. The kinetic parameters were also evaluated for both combustion and pyrolysis analysis. X-ray diffraction revealed that this sample consists of a significant amount of siderite and pyrite, and consequently showed distinct behavior. It was observed that the pyrolysis properties and kinetics were closely related to their complex mechanisms and reactions. Rock-Eval pyrolysis also confirmed the presence of siderite in the sample, which decomposed simultaneously with the organic-matter during pyrolysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biofuel combustion is an important source of particulate light absorbing organic carbon (OC), also known as brown carbon (BrC). We applied spectrophotometry to characterize methanol-extracted BrC from emission tests of 'real-world' biofuel combustion in India and Malawi, including wood stoves ('traditional', 'improved' and 'chimney') and artisanal charcoal kilns. Average mass absorption coefficient (MACbulk,λ) of extracted BrC was highest for 'traditional', followed by 'improved', 'chimney', and 'charcoal', at near-ultraviolet to blue wavelengths, with this order reversed for BrC absorption Angstrom exponent (AAE). MACbulk,λ in UV wavelengths was positively correlated with the elemental carbon to organic aerosol ratio (EC/OA), though the correlation was weaker than that observed in laboratory cookstove samples. BrC imaginary refractive indices (k) were anti-correlated with wavelength dependence (w), thus less wavelength dependent BrC had higher light absorptivity. MACbulk,λ correlated with the fraction of OC evolving at higher temperature steps in thermo-optical analysis, consistent with a link between BrC absorptivity and OC volatility, and suggesting that BrC absorption may be parameterized using existing OC data. Modeling analyses showed that BrC makes a strong contribution to overall absorption (average of 48% to 80% at 365 nm), and a strong negative correlation between EC/OA and the relative contribution of BrC to total aerosol (BrC + BC) light absorption; the latter trend is dominated by the quantity versus optical properties of BrC. The estimated direct radiative effect of BrC is approximately equal to that of BC for biofuel combustion emissions in India, highlighting the importance of BrC in the climate energy budget. Copyright © 2022 American Association for Aerosol Research [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plant parts like root, wood, twig and leaf of Cassia siamea, a fast-growing tree in the abandoned mines of Jharkhand, India, have been considered here as a possible fuel source for decentralized power generation. This is a low greenhouse gas emission pathway to cater the electricity need of the adjoining locality. Seasonal availability of the plant parts originated interests of studying the basic combustion characteristics of the plant parts separately. Finding out the roles of cellulose and lignin to regulate the combustion behavior of plant parts was another objective. Cellulose and lignin were extracted from each plant part, and their burning performances were evaluated against those of respective plant parts with the help of DSC-TGA. Cellulose and lignin were found to influence the combustion processes of plant parts differently. Lignin in case of leaf combustion and cellulose for wood combustion regulated the combustion process. Both lignin and cellulose were competitive in regulating the combustion of twig and root. Burning characteristics of cellulose or lignin extracted from different plant parts varied. Higher heating value (HHV) was low for celluloses (~ 16.8 ± 1 MJ kg−1) as compared to lignin (HHV ~ 23.0 ± 1 MJ kg−1). Leaf having substantial lignin and extractives showed the highest HHV around 23.5 MJ kg−1, while the lowest HHV (16.0 MJ kg−1) was observed for wood. Results are interesting for considering each plant part as a single fuel or as a potential component of coal–biomass blended fuel, where locally available low-grade high ash coal may be the other component. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rising fuel demand in a variety of applications now poses a substantial threat to world emissions levels. Mahua oil is a biodiesel made from Mahua oil, which is a possible non-edible oil source in India and a potential diesel fuel substitute. Mahua oil is a fuel made out of fatty acid alkyl esters that is environmentally benign. The goal of this experiment was to investigate Low Heat Rejection with Delayed Injection Timing in a Mahua oil-powered diesel engine. The engine's piston, cylinder walls, and valves were coated with 0.5 mm of Partial Stabilized Zirconium (PSZ) material without compromising the engine's compression ratio. Experiments were carried out in the engine with and without coating, using diesel and Mahua oil. When comparing the Mahua oil with retarded timing coated engine to the conventional engine with plain diesel fuel, the results showed that specific fuel consumption was reduced by 7.4% and brake thermal efficiency was raised by 5.6 percent. The CO and UBHC emissions from the LHR engine are lower. The zirconia coating increased NOx emission. The combustion research revealed that the engine tested was superior to that of a normal diesel engine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Optimization of fuel injection strategies can maximize the utilization of ternary fuel by addressing the issues concerning fuel consumption, engine performance, and exhaust gas emission. In the midst of the pervasiveness of plant-based biofuel, this paper focused on maximizing the mahua oil biodiesel usage in a diesel engine having a common rail direct injection (CRDI) system without any engine modifications. The crude oil extracted from the seeds of Madhuca longifolia is known in India as mahua butter and has shown impressive fuel properties such as lower viscosity, flashpoint, boiling point, and comparable calorific value to diesel. 1-Pentanol, which has a chain of five carbons and can easily be blended with both diesel and biodiesel, is a promising type of alcohol for the future. In this study, the influence of fuel injection pressure with ternary fuel (diesel + mahua methyl ester + pentanol) on engine characteristics of CRDI diesel engine was analyzed. The fuel injection pressure is varied from 20 to 50 MPa so that ternary fuel can be properly utilized. The high injection pressure of 50 MPa has better combustion characteristics and higher brake thermal efficiency (4.39%) value than other injection pressure values. A better mixture is formed due to well-atomized spray, and as a result, the levels of CO (22.24%), HC (9.49%), and smoke (7.5%) fall with the increase in injection pressure. The usage of ternary fuel raised the NOx emission (12.46%) value and specific fuel consumption (SFC) with a decrease in the BTE (brake thermal efficiency) which attributes to its properties and combustion characteristics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Deterioration of air quality through the combustion of hydrocarbon fuels has been one of the global transboundary problems put before the research community since last five decades. According to the updated statistics, 79% of energy needs in India are met by fossil fuel combustion which results in the emission of toxic pollutants like carbon monoxide, oxides of nitrogen, and unburned hydrocarbons. Air quality has seriously been affected in many parts of India, and statistically, 13 out of 15 most polluted cities in the world lie in India. Magnetic field-assisted combustion has been proven as a reliable technology in internal combustion engines for enhancing the combustion of fuels and reduction of harmful emissions that are the byproducts of incomplete combustion of fuels. In the present work, the magnetic field-assisted combustion of a liquid-phase and a gas-phase fuel (gasoline and LPG) has been studied in a multicylinder automobile engine replicating on road driving conditions in a laboratory focusing on the levels of emissions in comparison with normal combustion of both the fuels. The experimental study concludes that the applied magnetic field positively influences combustion, resulting in reduced level of emission of toxic components irrespective of the phase of hydrocarbon fuels. It is also observed that the percentage reduction in emissions increases with increase in intensity of magnetization. The maximum reduction obtained for CO and UBHC emissions through this technique is 20.58% and 14.47%, respectively. The effectiveness of MFAC in countering air pollution from vehicular exhaust is also studied with respect to fuel phase and mode of operation. The effectiveness of MFAC is observed to be more in high-speed operation of the engine and decreases in the order CO > UBHC > NO. The obtained emission results have a cumulative significance as 45% of total air pollution in India is caused by combustion of hydrocarbons in automotive engines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Onsite mine fire generates large volumes of heat-affected coal in Jharia coalfields, India. Direct utilization of such heat-affected coal in thermal utilities is not feasible as such coal does not have the desirable volatile matter required for combustion. In the present work, experimental studies have been carried out to investigate the possible utilization of such heat-affected coal in thermal utilities by blending with other coal. Heat-affected coal (31% ash and 5300 kcal/kg GCV) collected from Jharia coalfield were blended with thermal coal (28% ash and 5650 kcal/kg GCV) in different ratios of 90:10, 80:20, 70:30 and 60:40 to identify the desirable blend ratio for burning of blended coal in thermal utilities. Burning characteristics of all the coals were carried out using TGA. Various combustion parameters such as ignition temperature, peak temperature, burnout temperature, ignition index, burnout index, combustion performance index, rate and heat intensity index of the combustion process and activation energy were evaluated to analyse the combustion process. Experimental and theoretical analysis shows the blend ratio of 90:10 can be used in place of only thermal coal in utilities to reduce the fuel cost. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Twenty-nine different fuel types used in residential dwellings in northern India were collected from across Delhi (76 samples in total). Emission factors of a wide range of non-methane volatile organic compounds (NMVOCs) (192 compounds in total) were measured during controlled burning experiments using dual-channel gas chromatography with flame ionisation detection (DC-GC-FID), two-dimensional gas chromatography (GC × GC-FID), proton-transfer-reaction time-of-flight mass spectrometry (PTR-ToF-MS) and solid-phase extraction two-dimensional gas chromatography with time-of-flight mass spectrometry (SPE-GC × GC–ToF-MS). On average, 94 % speciation of total measured NMVOC emissions was achieved across all fuel types. The largest contributors to emissions from most fuel types were small non-aromatic oxygenated species, phenolics and furanics. The emission factors (in g kg -1) for total gas-phase NMVOCs were fuelwood (18.7, 4.3–96.7), cow dung cake (62.0, 35.3–83.0), crop residue (37.9, 8.9–73.8), charcoal (5.4, 2.4–7.9), sawdust (72.4, 28.6–115.5), municipal solid waste (87.3, 56.6–119.1) and liquefied petroleum gas (5.7, 1.9–9.8). The emission factors measured in this study allow for better characterisation, evaluation and understanding of the air quality impacts of residential solid-fuel combustion in India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work presents the analysis of combustion characteristics of high ash Indian coal (28%–40%) collected from different mines of Singaurali coalfield, India. All the coal samples were characterized by proximate and gross calorific value analysis. Combustion performance of the coals were characterised using thermo-gravimetric analysis to identify the burning profile of individual coals. Various combustion kinetic parameters such as ignition temperature, peak temperature and burnout temperature, ignition index and burnout index, combustion performance index plus rate and intensity index of combustion process, activation energy were determined to analyse the combustion behaviour of coal. Further all these combustion properties were compared with the volatile matter, ash, fixed carbon and fuel ratio of each coal. Theoretical analysis shows that with increase in ash content, combustion performance initially increases and later descends. Further, coal with (25 ± 1.75)% volatile matter, 20%–35% ash and fuel ratio 1.4–1.5 were found to be optimum for coal combustion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents the evaluation of near-future advanced internal combustion engine technologies to reach near zero-emission in vehicles with in the Indian market. Extensive research was carried out to propose the rationalise the most promising, new ICE technologies which can be implemented in the vehicles to reduce CO2 emissions until the year 2030. A total of six technologies were considered that could be implemented in the Indian market. An initial market survey was carried out on the Indian automotive industry and electric vehicles in India, followed by an in-depth analysis and understanding of each technology through literature review. The main aim of the paper was to construct methods for a successful implementation of clean ICE technologies in the near future and to, also, predict a percentage reduction of CO2 tailpipe emissions from the vehicles. To do this, different objectives were laid out with a view to reducing the tailpipe CO2 emissions. Especially with the recent and legitimate focus on climate change in the world, this study aims to provide practical solutions pathway for India. Widespread research was carried out on all six technologies proposed within the automotive market in India and a set of main graphs represent CO2 emission reduction starting from 2020 until 2030. A significant reduction of CO2 was observed in the graph plot at the end of the paper and the technologies were successfully implemented for the Indian market to curb tailpipe CO2 emissions. A methodology based on calculating the vehicle fuel consumption was implemented and a graph was plotted showing the reduction of CO2 emissions until 2030. The starting point of the graph is 2020, when BS-VI comes into effect in India (April 2020). The CO2 limit taken into consideration here has been defined by the Government at 113 CO2 g/km. The paper fulfilled the aim of predicting the effects of implementing the technologies and the subsequent reductions of CO2 emissions for India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Physical, Regulatory and Brand value risks due to climate change challenges are foreseen by businesses globally. This paper is oriented towards these challenges and prepared a comprehensive Greenhouse gases (GHG) footprint plan and identification of mitigation opportunities for ONGC, a fortune 500 and national oil company of India. Internationally recognized standards and guidelines like Greenhouse Gas Protocol, ISO-14064, and American Petroleum Institute compendium have been referred for quantifying carbon emissions in nearly real 400 + operation control facilities. The GHG inventory is based on Operational Control approach to identify the boundary for which emissions are to be quantified and two significant scopes of emissions viz Direct Emissions and Indirect Emissions are identified and quantified. The quantification concluded that GHG emission footprint for the year 2016–17 is in the range of 9 million tons of CO 2 equivalent. GHG emissions mainly account due to stationary combustion, fugitive emissions and wastewater treatment, which share the around 56% of total emissions. Another 24–26% of emissions are contributed due to flaring, processes by glycol dehydrator, acid gas removal units, and by electricity purchased from the grid. As a result, it has been found that ONGC emits 187 kg CO 2 e emissions per tonne throughput and also compared with its global peer organizations. At the organization level, "Key Industrial Sites" have been identified as contributing higher GHG emissions and accordingly key "hot-spots," a list of 15 GHG mitigation opportunities have been proposed in the paper. Two GHG mitigation initiatives based on solar energy and bioenergy application undertaken at ONGC has also been briefed on case studies. Highlights • Comprehensive carbon footprint plan and identification of mitigation opportunities for Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC), a fortune 500 and national oil company of India. • Guidelines like Greenhouse Gas Protocol, ISO-4064 and American Petroleum Institute compendium are referred for quantifying carbon emissions from direct and indirect sources. • Green policy, incentives and mandatory compliance. • CO2e emissions per tonne throughput and also compared with its peer global organisations. • Key hot-spots, with a list of 15 GHG mitigation opportunities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Traditionally coal has been extensively used as a dominating fossil fuel in a wide range of industries due to its abundance. In India, industries like thermal power plants, cement industries, iron, and steel industries along with many captive power plants consume a huge quantity of coal each year to meet energy demand. Coal combustion releases blackish-grey colored fly ash waste is one of the most imperative sources of radionuclides like Radium (226Ra) , Thorium (232Th), Potassium (40K) and Uranium (238U). The estimated industrial fly ash is ∼308.416 Million Tonnes (MT) in 2019, considered as an emerging environmental problem. This study represents the first-ever radionuclide emission from Indian fly ash generated across various major industries. The results reveal that the estimated 226Ra, 232Th, 238U, and 40K radionuclides were estimated to be ∼27.473 TBq, ∼44.351 TBq, ∼41.089 TBq, and ∼111.091 TBq respectively. The potential radionuclide hotspot regions across the nation are identified, which could be used as an important tool to assess its impact on the chronic exposure of millions of residents living near these sources. Cleaner or green energy could be the best alternative to combat the unseen health disaster. More effective and safe utilization of fly ash can minimize the hazardous effect of radionuclides emission. [Display omitted] • National 226Ra,232Th, 238U and 40K radionuclide emission from fly ash is estimated. • The potential radionuclide hotspot regions are identified throughout India. • ∼21.8 million people are exposed to higher dose of radionuclides near hotspots. • Thermal Power Plants are the largest contributor of various radionuclide emission. • Korba, Kutch, Sonbhadra are among the most sensitive region in country. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In 1870's the concern about deforestation, desertification and fuel wood shortage leading to the introduction of the Prosopis juliflora in India. The pro-line content in Prosopis is high under stress conditions, which helped the plant to thrive under extreme draught. Since Prosopis juliflora is abundantly available in rural areas, Indian rural households mainly depends on firewood for cooking and other thermal application using combustion route. The conversion efficiency of such system is very low and also degrade the environment. This paper analysis the combustion Vs autogasification route of converting Prosopis juliflora strikes into thermal as well as power application due to its high calorific value and ash properties. A novel gasification approach called autogasification has been employed converting solid combustible to gaseous fuel without supplying of oxygen to enrich specific calorific value of producer gas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anthropogenic Pb in the environment is primarily sourced from combustion of fossil fuel and high-temperature industries such as smelters. Identifying the sources and pathways of anthropogenic Pb in the environment is important because Pb toxicity is known to have adverse effects on human health. Pb pollution sources for America, Europe, and China are well documented. However, sources of atmospheric Pb are unknown in India, particularly after leaded gasoline was phased out in 2000. India has a developing economy with a rapidly emerging automobile and high temperature industry, and anthropogenic Pb emission is expected to rise in the next decade. In this study, we report on the Pb-isotope compositions and trace metal ratios of airborne particulates collected in Kanpur, a large city in northern part of India. The study shows that the PM 10 aerosols had elevated concentration of Cd, Pb, Zn, As, and Cu in the Kanpur area, however their concentrations are well below the United States Environmental Protection Agency chronic exposure limit. Lead isotopic and trace metal data reveal industrial emission as the plausible source of anthropogenic Pb in the atmosphere in Kanpur. However, Pb isotopic compositions of potential source end-members are required to fully evaluate Pb contamination in India over time. This is the first study that characterizes the isotopic composition of atmospheric Pb in an Indian city after leaded gasoline was phased out by 2000. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Black carbon (BC) mass concentration variation has been studied, over a period of 2 years (June 2010-May 2012) at Bhubaneswar. Daily, monthly and seasonal measurements revealed a clear winter maxima (5.6 μg/m) of BC followed by post-monsoon (4.05 μg/m), monsoon (3.02 μg/m) and pre-monsoon (2.46 μg/m). Nighttime BC mass concentrations have been found to be distinctly higher during winter followed by post-monsoon and monsoon. Investigations reveal that the winter maxima are due to a stable atmospheric condition and long-range transport over the Indo-Gangetic Plain and Western Asia. Local boundary layer dynamics and anthropogenic activities have been assumed to have a pronounced effect on the diurnal cycle seasonally. Statistical analysis suggests significant variation of BC during the months and non-significant during the days. The study also gives an insight into importance of BC study from health angle and suggests an assessment and management framework. Source apportionment study suggests that BC mass concentration observed at Bhubaneswar is generally dominated by fossil fuel combustion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: In the present paper, we have determined emission factor of chemical composition of the emission from the burning of biomass (e.g. Dung cake, Acacia, Neem, Mulberry, Indian Rosewood, Pigeon pea etc.) commonly used as a residential fuel in the rural sector of Indo-Gangetic Plain (IGP) (Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and West Bengal), India. For comparison, we have selected only those biomass fuels, which are used in at least three of the above mentioned states. Dung cake from all the states reports highest emission of particulate matter (PM) (15.68 g kg−1), Organic Carbon (OC) (4.32 g kg−1) and Elemental Carbon (EC) (0.51 g kg−1). Among all biomass fuels studied, agricultural residue reports substantial amount of emission of Na+ (104 mg kg−1), K+ (331 mg kg−1) and Cl− (447 mg kg−1) particularly in Pigeon pea and Mustard stem. Eucalyptus (fuel wood) emits large amounts of Ca2+ (21.47 mg kg−1) and NO3 − (614 mg kg−1). The emission of PM from dung cake is higher in Delhi (19.31 g kg−1) and followed by Uttar Pradesh (17.58 g kg−1) > Haryana (15.46 g kg−1) > Bihar (14.99 g kg−1) > Punjab (12.06 g kg−1) > West Bengal (5.90 g kg−1). Carbonaceous aerosols (OC and EC) and dominant Ionic species (Cl−, K+, SO4 2−, NO3 − and PO4 3−) are altogether contributing 40–70% of total emissions. Characteristics and ratios of chemical species of emissions may help to develop a methodology of discriminating the sources of ambient particulate matter. Using a laboratory determined emission factor of chemical species, we have determined the emission budget over IGP, India. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

In this study, energy and exergy analysis of a coal fired steam power plant in India was carried out and the effects of varying the reference ambient temperature, stack gas temperature and the percentage of excess combustion air on this analysis were examined through computer simulation. The combustion process in the boiler was analyzed in detail considering the actual composition and condition of atmospheric air and variation of specific heat of gases with temperature. Maximum energy loss was found in the condenser (62.02%) followed by the boiler (13.03%) while maximum destruction of fuel exergy was found in the boiler system (63.02%) followed by the turbine (9.35%), and then the condenser (3.24%). Significant potential to improve plant efficiency, therefore, exists through reducing irreversibility in the boiler system. The ambient temperature was found to have its highest effect on the changes of the irreversibility rate in the boiler as compared to that in other components. To examine the effects of stack gas temperature and the excess combustion air on the irreversibility rate of the boiler system, the stack gas temperature was varied from the existing 134.3°C to 90°C and the excess air percentage was varied from 25% to 5%. The results showed that decreasing either the percentage of excess combustion air or the exhaust gas temperature or both, causes the irreversibility rate in the boiler to decrease. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Soil samples were collected over a year-long period along a background-urban-rural transect in Delhi, India for the analysis of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), black carbon (BC), and total organic carbon (TOC) in five grain size fractions, x, in μm of 0≤ x<53 (I), 53≤ x<250 (II), 250≤ x<500 (III), 500≤ x<2000 (IV), and their sum (total: T). Maximum concentrations of PAH, BC, and TOC were observed in the smallest fraction (I) comprising silt and clay, irrespective of site or season. Results of the molecular diagnostic ratios and principal component analysis (PCA) identified coal, wood, biomass burning, and vehicular emissions as major sources of PAHs at all the three sites, while BC/TOC ratios pointed toward biomass combustion as the chief source of carbonaceous species. This work presents the first such rural-urban transect study considering PAH, BC, and TOC in soil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Used palm oil collected from different restaurants in Tirunelveli region of south India was converted into methyl esters (biodiesel) by transesterification. Biodiesel produced from used palm oil was blended with diesel by different volume proportions (25%, 50% and 75%). Biodiesel and its blends were tested in a DI diesel engine at constant speed by varying loads (between 20% and 100%) to analyze its performance, emission and combustion profile. The results obtained were compared with diesel fuel. B25 and B50 showed performances similar to diesel fuel. Smoke density of B100 and B75 were lower than diesel by 19% and 10% at full load. At full load measured CO emission for B100 and B75 were 52.9% and 35.2% lower than diesel HC emission for B100 and B75 were 38.09% and 19.05% lower than diesel. NOX emission was higher for all biodiesel blends. B75 showed lower amount of emissions throughout the test. Ignition delay for B100, B75, B50 and B25 were 2.1°, 1.9°, 1.7° and 1° lower than diesel. Combustion profile was smoother and no knocking was experienced while operating with biodiesel blends. B50 produced peak cylinder pressure. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Close to three billion people globally and over 800 million in India are dependent on direct combustion of unprocessed solid biomass fuels in inefficient traditional mud stoves. Current cooking practices, besides causing serious health problems, are also being linked to emissions of climate change and pollution agents such as black carbon and ozone precursors. In India several initiatives have been taken up to tackle the problem but the present trajectory of limited technical and social change in cooking energy use is nonetheless persistent in rural areas. In order to develop and scale up alternative cooking technology options, we have analyzed, using the principles of strategic niche management, two projects implemented by The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI) in nine villages in India. The assessment, while highlighting reasons for stability of the current cooking regime, also points to triggers that can destabilize the regime. The focus is also on assessing the influence of protection in the form of subsidies on the process of transition. User preferences relating to social and technical aspects have been analyzed, pointing to forced draft cookstoves as the preferred option notwithstanding cost reductions to address affordability concerns. The assessment indicates that while it is critically important to understand and address the preferences of users and to improve the technology, scaling up will depend on stove cost reduction through further research. Creativity in effective financing schemes and support structures put in place by fostering public-private partnerships are also needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives. Increasing prevalence of asthma in developing countries has been a significant challenge for public health in recent decades. A number of studies have suggested that ambient air pollution can trigger asthma attacks. Biomass and solid fuels are a major source of indoor air pollution, but in developing countries the health effects of indoor air pollution are poorly understood. In this study we examined the effect of cooking smoke produced by biomass and solid fuel combustion on the reported prevalence of asthma among adult men and women in India. Methods. The analysis is based on 99,574 women and 56,742 men aged between 20 and 49 years included in India's third National Family Health Survey conducted in 2005-2006. Effects of exposure to cooking smoke, determined by the type of fuel used for cooking such as biomass and solid fuels versus cleaner fuels, on the reported prevalence of asthma were estimated using multivariate logistic regression. Since the effects of cooking smoke are likely to be confounded with effects of tobacco smoking, age, and other such factors, the analysis was carried out after statistically controlling for such factors. Results. The results indicate that adult women living in households using biomass and solid fuels have a significantly higher risk of asthma than those living in households using cleaner fuels (OR: 1.26; 95%CI: 1.06-1.49; p = .010), even after controlling for the effects of a number of potentially confounding factors. Interestingly, this effect was not found among men (OR: 0.98; 95%CI: 0.77-1.24; p = .846). However, tobacco smoking was associated with higher asthma prevalence among both women (OR: 1.72; 95%CI: 1.34-2.21; p < .0001) and men (OR: 1.35; 95%CI: 1.49-2.25; p < .0001). Combined effects of biomass and solid fuel use and tobacco smoke on the risk of asthma were greater and more significant in women (OR: 2.16; 95%CI: 1.58-2.94; p < .0001) than they were in men (OR: 1.34; 95%CI: 1.04-1.72; p = .024). Conclusions. The findings have important program and policy implications for countries such as India, where large proportions of the population still rely on polluting biomass fuels for cooking and heating. Decreasing household biomass and solid fuel use and increasing use of improved stove technology may decrease the health effects of indoor air pollution. More epidemiological research with better measures of smoke exposure and clinical measures of asthma is needed to validate the findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The traditional Vishu festival in the state of Kerala in South India is celebrated in April with extensive coordinated fireworks display. The influence of these celebrations on the immediate and long-term air quality and impact on the health and well being of the public needs research. The combustion clouds contain harmful fumes (sulfur dioxide, oxides of nitrogen) and particulate matter released at the surface. This study is focused on the influence of fireworks on the air quality at Kannur, India, during Vishu in April 2010 and 2011. Elevated concentrations of various air pollutants such as O3, NO2, NO and PM10 were measured during the intense usage of fireworks. Surprisingly, the organic analysis of the Particulate Matter (PM) samples collected on Vishu day revealed the emission of a variety of hazardous organic compounds during the fireworks display. One of the unique observations in this work is the nighttime production of O3 by the photodissociation of NO2 from the flash of firecrackers. The concentration of O3 was observed to increase two fold over the control days of observation during the same month. Moreover, the concentrations of NO2, and PM10 increased by 100%. The concentration of NO was reduced by four fold during the event. A scheme based on the organic combustion from fireworks and peroxyl radical mediation is proposed for the nighttime production of ozone. The diurnal profile of all pollutants except NO showed higher concentrations starting from the Vishu eve on April 14 to Vishu day on April 15 and this pattern repeated for years 2010 and 2011. The fireworks activities have been increasing every year and generation of pollutants at their increased levels for short duration can potentially cause adverse health impacts on a regional scale in a highly populated region. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Worldwide, the coal mining sectors displays a raising trend. Thus, coal demands coming from China, India and USA shall increase with 3 billion tons in the following 2 decades, reaching 9 billion tons per year. Coal mining comprises several risk factors, one of which being the explosion risk. An explosion is the result of time and space concurrency of: concentration of substances inside the explosion limits; oxygen in atmosphere; ignition source. Coal mines have firedamp (i.e. methane + coal dust), and for most of situations, the ignition source is endogenous fire (spontaneous combustion). This paper addresses the possible diminution of methane concentration in the underground atmosphere and the diminution of endogenous fires when using new technologies for preventing spontaneous combustions. There are reviewed the degassing methods used in the Romanian hard coal mines and the mining methods used in the Jiu Valley coal mines. Some are newly patented inventions or pending, all being developed by the experts of INCD-INSEMEX Petroşani. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The quantification of source contributions is of key importance for proposing environmental mitigation strategies for particulate organic matter. Organic molecular tracer analysis of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and n-alkanes was conducted on a set of winter samples from two regional receptor sites in South Asia: the Island of Hanimaadhoo (the Republic of Maldives) and a mountain top near Sinhagad (W. India). Monte Carlo source apportionment (MCSA) techniques were applied to the observed PAH ratios using profiles of a representative range of regional combustion sources from the literature to estimate the relative source contributions from petroleum combustion, coal combustion and biomass burning. One advantage of this methodology is the combined use of the mean and standard deviation of the diagnostic ratios to calculate probability distribution functions for the fractional contributions from petroleum, coal and biomass combustion. The results of this strategy indicate a higher input from coal combustion at the Hanimaadhoo site (32–43 ± 21%) than the Sinhagad site (24–25 ± 18%). The estimated biomass contribution for Sinhagad (53 ± 22%) parallels previous radiocarbon-based source apportionment of elemental carbon at this location (54 ± 3%). In Hanimaadhoo, the MCSA results indicate 34 ± 20% biomass burning contribution compared to 41 ± 5% by radiocarbon apportionment of EC. While the MCSA based on PAH ratio diagnostic distributions are less precise than the radiocarbon-based apportionment, it provides additional information of the relative contribution of two subgroups, coal and petroleum combustion, within the overall contribution from fossil fuel combustion. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Fly ash (FA) generated as a waste produced from thermal power plants globally has started gaining as a potentially significant anthropogenic source of arsenic (As). In India electricity generation is predominantly dependent upon coal-based thermal power plants and are being producing huge amount of FA. Coal contains many toxic metals, arsenic is one of those, which is significantly toxic for aquatic and terrestrial life including human being. Coal used in Indian thermal power plants is mainly bituminous and sub-bituminous and which on combustion generate over 40% of FA. Generated FA is being disposed to open ash pond in thin slurry form. More than 65,000 acre of land in India is occupied for storage of this massively generated quantity of FA. Dumping of FA in open ash pond causes serious adverse environmental impacts owing to its elevated trace element contents, in particular the As which causes ecological problems. Although, the As problem in our country is not new, in recent years the occurrence of As contamination cases of agricultural soil, ground water as well as human health has resulted a great concern for its mitigation. Very recently India has been charged for being a “dumping hub for As”. Utilization of FA in India is still infancy (more than 38%) as compared to developed countries (more than 70%). In India FA is used particularly in cement production, brick industry, as road base, as amendments in the restoration ecology and forestry. This review emphasized on the concentration of As in FA, its fate and behaviour as hazardous element on human health, environment quality and on mitigation strategies to accomplish environmental management. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Scanning Imaging Absorption Spectrometer for Atmospheric Cartography (SCIAMACHY) tropospheric NO2 retrievals (average during March-April-May 2003-2006) were used to locate the major urban sources of NO2 in India. To show that tropospheric NO2 measurements from satellites can provide useful information on day-to-day changes in urban NO2 concentration, we compared 2-year (October 2004-October 2006) records of surface air NO2 concentrations obtained at one of the measurement sites in Delhi to retrievals of tropospheric NO2 columns from Ozone Monitoring Instrument (OMI) observations. The quality of correlation between satellite observations at the urban scale and surface measurements (45%) provided confidence to investigate the temporal changes in the local emission over major urban locations. Combined Global Ozone Monitoring Experiment (GOME) and SCIAMACHY measurements for the period March 1996-December 2007 were used to compute the trends over the selected urban locations. A statistical analysis was applied to derive trends for this period over these locations. The time series of the monthly NO2 columns for these 11 years were fitted with a linear function superposed on an annual seasonal cycle. We found a statistically significant increase in tropospheric NO2 levels over the major urban cities in India. Notable urban locations of positive trends were found to be the cities where the urban population is growing rapidly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A review of the emergence and maturing of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) research in India over the last four decades is presented. The status of in-house developed CFD codes in various aerospace laboratories and academic institutions in the country is described along with their strengths and weaknesses. Although, some level of maturity is achieved in CFD to address the external flow problems of an aerospace vehicle, the slow growth of indigenous reacting CFD codes forced Indian aerospace industry to depend solely on the commercial software for addressing the internal flow problems related to propulsion and combustion. A brief account of various technical and managerial issues in CFD development is presented. A roadmap is proposed for the graduation of CFD codes, from analysis tool to design tool. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Nitrogen dioxide (NO2) plays a key role in the chemistry of the atmosphere and is emitted mainly by combustion processes. These emissions have been increasing over India over the past few years due to rapid economic growth and yet there are very few systematic ground based observations of NO2 over this region. We thus take recourse to satellite data and compare tropospheric NO2 column abundances simulated by a chemical transport model, MOZART, with data from the Global Ozone Monitoring Experiment (GOME) for a few locations in India that have seen a rapid economic growth in the last decade. The model generally simulates higher columnar abundances of NO2 compared to GOME observations and does not reproduce the features of the observed seasonal behaviour. The combined uncertainties of the emission inventory and retrieval of the satellite data could be contributing factors to the discrepancies. It may be thus worthwhile to develop emission inventories for India at a higher resolution to include local level activity data. The ten year data (1996–2006) from GOME and SCIAMACHY (SCanning Imaging Absorption spectroMeter for Atmospheric CHartographY) show increasing trends for Indian cities where rapid industrial and vehicular traffic growth has been observed during this period. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Environmental degradation and depleting oil reserves are matters of great concern around the globe. Developing countries like India depend heavily on oil import of about 125Mt per annum (7:1 diesel/gasoline). Diesel being the main transport fuel in India, finding a suitable alternative to diesel is an urgent need. In this context, waste plastic solid is currently receiving renewed interest. Waste plastic oil is suitable for compression ignition engines and more attention is focused in India because of its potential to generate large-scale employment and relatively low environmental degradation. The present investigation was to study the effect of cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) on four stroke, single cylinder, direct injection (DI) diesel engine using 100% waste plastic oil. Experimental results showed higher oxides of nitrogen emissions when fueled with waste plastic oil without EGR. NO x emissions were reduced when the engine was operated with cooled EGR. The EGR level was optimized as 20% based on significant reduction in NO x emissions, minimum possible smoke, CO, HC emissions and comparable brake thermal efficiency. Smoke emissions of waste plastic oil were higher at all loads. Combustion parameters were found to be comparable with and without EGR. Compression ignition engines run on waste plastic oil are found to emit higher oxides of nitrogen. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Surface water and groundwater samples of certain locations namely Kallambella, Bugudanahalli, Maidala, Honnudike, Kunigal, Kadaba and Hebbur, situated around Tumkur were assessed in the month of September 2008 for pH, EC and heavy metals Cd, Cu, Fe, Hg, Mn, Zn and Ni. The pH vales of surface waters were in alkaline range of 7.8-8.2 and are well within safe limits for crop production. The pH of groundwater was in the range of 7.6-8.4. The conductivity was in the range of 0.20-0.68 mS/cm and 0.34-2.44 mS/cm for surface and groundwaters respectively. High EC value of Kallambella groundwater accounts for its salinity. All surface waters except Honnudike and Hebbur samples contain low concentrations of these metals and are ideal for irrigation. Though the samples from Honnudike, Kadaba and Hebbur have high iron concentration, only Honnudike and Hebbur samples have exceeded the limit of 5 mg/L required for irrigation. In groundwaters the concentrations of all these heavy metals except copper are also well in permissible limits and suitable for drinking. Cu, Fe, Ni and Zn were detected in all the samples and found in the range of 0.094-0.131, 0.958-12.537, 0.020-0.036 and 0.082-1.139 mg/L respectively in surface waters and these are in the range of 0.132-0.142, 0.125-1.014, 0.028-0.036 and 0.003-0.037 mg/L in groundwaters. The elements cadmium, mercury and manganese are absent in all the samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Aerosol (total suspended particulate) samples collected at three diverse locations (urban-commercial, semi-urban and rural-agricultural) in Patiala, India were analyzed for loss on ignition (LOI) and organic tarry matter (OTM) content in ambient air during crop residue burning (CRB) episodes and non-crop residue burning (NCRB) months in 2006–2007. Results showed high levels of LOI and OTM during wheat and rice crop residue-burning periods at all the sites. Higher levels were obtained during rice crop residue-burning period as compared to the wheat residue-burning period. At semi-urban site, LOI varied between 53 ± 36 μg m−3 and 257 ± 14 μg m−3 constituting 38–78% (w/w) part of the aerosols whereas levels of OTM varied between 0.98 ± 0.11 μg m−3 and 7.93 ± 2.76 μg m−3 comprising 0.42–3.28% (w/w) fraction. At rural-agricultural area site, levels of LOI varied between 86 ± 40 μg m−3 and 293 ± 70 μg m−3 comprising 27–84% (w/w), whereas OTM levels varied between 1.31 ± 0.64 μg m−3 and 10.09 ± 6.56 μg m−3 constituting 0.83–2.42% (w/w) fraction of the aerosols. At urban-cum-commercial site, levels of LOI and OTM varied between 48 ± 23 μg m−3 and 281 ± 152 μg m−3 and 2.53 ± 1.23 μg m−3 and 17.40 ± 8.50 μg m−3, constituting 24–62% (w/w) part of the aerosols, respectively. Results also indicated that OTM and LOI were integral parts of aerosols and their concentrations were influenced by the crop residue burning practices with incorporated effect of vehicular activities in Patiala. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Natural Gas is one of the important fossil fuel energy resources in India. Anchor customers of natural gas are the power sector and nitrogenous fertilizer. It is the cleanest form of energy derived from the fossil fuel basket. Because of clean combustion characteristics, natural gas is the fuel choice for many sections of Indian industry. The demand for natural gas will grow with time. Currently natural gas accounts for 7% of the primary energy consumption of India. The Government of India has its commitment to food security and energy security. The policies are directed toward greater allocation of natural gas on a priority basis to fertilizer and the power sector. Natural gas is the main and preferred feedstock for urea manufacture. This paper analyzes and estimates projected demand of natural gas in the next two decades. The demand projections have been reviewed in the context of changing government policies regarding the fertilizer industry, such as farm gate price regulation and self-sufficiency level of indigenous urea production. The current growth plan of natural gas supply and evolving supply scenario in the future are also considered in the study. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

In situ combustion is one of the approaches used for secondary recovery of heavy oil in which time-lapse seismic data might be used to track the production process. We have analyzed three time-lapse seismic surveys carried out at a time interval of one year during pre- and postcombustion phases of in situ combustion at the Balol field in India. Interpretation of these land time-lapse data using standard seismic amplitude differences in terms of reservoir changes during production and injection can be erroneous. The Balol data, in particular, lacked calibration and had poor repeatability. We have addressed these issues by demonstrating the applicability of independent prestack inversion of baseline and monitor surveys to derive elastic attributes that help to produce clearer images of fluid movement. Independent estimates of wavelets from the baseline and two monitor surveys were used in prestack inversion to estimate acoustic impedance, shear impedance, and Poisson's ratio. The results show unexpected movement of the thermal front away from the injection wells toward the north and northwest of the injection wells, farther from the production wells. These results have been confirmed by well production data from the field north and northwest of Balol. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Fundamental combustion studies of high ash, high plastic content Indian RDF. • Single particle studies show decisive effect of high ash on RDF char conversion. • RDF exhibits a unique swelling behavior due to its high plastic content. • RDF ash has high alkali, alkaline earth metals and lower ash fusion temperatures. • High ash coupled with high plastic content resulted in clinkers inside packed bed. This work reports fundamental combustion characteristics of high ash (∼ 18 %), high plastic (30–35 %) content refuse derived fuel (RDF) pellets produced currently in India. Single particle and packed bed studies of RDF were carried out to quantify RDF combustion times and RDF ash fusion behavior, respectively. Single particle studies concluded that RDF has glowing time to flaming time ratio of ∼ 3.5, which was similar to that of biomass and four times lower than that of coal. It was also observed that unlike biomass, upon heating, RDF particle showed a unique 5.6 to 10.3 % swelling behavior due to the melting of plastic. Packed bed experiments at different air mass flux on RDF pellets concluded that apart from air mass flux, ash content plays a decisive role on rate of flame propagation. The high plastic content of fuel increased ash fusion tendency inside the packed bed. Packed bed studies suggested maximum superficial velocity of ≤ 0.03 m s−1 to avoid clinker formation. Sieve analysis of RDF ash collected from packed bed studies reported soft ash at a lower air mass flux and bigger lumps of fused ash at higher air mass flux. Clinkers obtained at different air mass flux 0.02, 0.07, 0.13 kg m−2 s−1 were 1 %, 8 % and 11 % of the feed, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) is a popular fuel for domestic and commercial cooking as it offers clean cooking environment as well as high heat content. Large increases in the demand of LPG in developing countries like India, in the face of its dwindling reserve, underscores the need for performance improvement of LPG cook stoves. The present paper investigates the combustion and emission characteristics of the LPG cook stove burners commonly used in India, and have suggested performance improvement through different designs modifications in the burner cap and fuel injection nozzle. It is found that the increase in the diameter of the ports admitting the fuel–primary air mixture and obliquely orienting the ports to impart swirl to the flow enhances the performance through better efficiency and reduced emissions and soot formation. The smaller orifice hole in the fuel injection nozzle also improves the performance through increased efficiency and reduced emission at the expense of decreasing burner loading. The design improvements are easy and economic to implement, and can lead to nearly 3% of improvement in system thermal efficiency and significant reduction in emission. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Atmospheric concentrations of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in Delhi were evaluated to study particulate PAHs profiles during the different seasons of 2003. Samples of urban suspended particulate matter were collected during January 2003 to December 2003 at three locations (Okhla, Dhaulakuan and Daryaganj), using a high volume sampler provided with glass fiber filters. Samples were analyzed using the gas chromatography technique. The annual average concentrations of total PAHs were found as 1,049.3 ng/m3 at Okhla, 1,344.37 ng/m3 at Daryaganj, and 1,117.14 ng/m3 at Dhaulakuan. The seasonal average concentrations were found to be maximum in winter and minimum during the monsoon season. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) of the data was also carried out and the results indicate that diesel and gasoline driven vehicles are the principal sources of PAHs at all the three sites under investigation. Other sources might come from stationary combustion sources such as cooking fuel combustion and industrial emission. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Coal is the major fossil fuel used in industrial units and power plants for power generation in India. The carbon dioxide emitted as a product of combustion of coal (fossil fuels) is currently responsible for over 60% of the enhanced greenhouse effect. The present communication is an attempt to provide a brief investigation of CO2 emission from coal based power generation in India. Energy indicators, trends in energy consumption and carbon dioxide emissions have been thoroughly investigated. Methodology for analysis of carbon emissions and possible sinks is also provided. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Combustion behaviour of blends of two Indian coals of same rank with wide variation in mineral matter content were studied using Thermogravimetric Analyzer (TGA) and Drop Tube Furnace (DTF). The characteristic TGA parameters determined from the burning profiles showed both additive and non-additive behaviour. The burnout temperature and peak temperature showed a linearly decreasing trend with the increasing proportion of the high ash coal. Deviation from the linear trend was observed in the case of the reactivity parameter. The high ash coal showed better TGA reactivity than the low ash coal. The higher TGA reactivity could arise from the combined effect of mineral matter and the nature and distribution of the macerals, particularly those of the inertinite group. The burnout in DTF showed a nonlinear effect. The burnout behaviour of the coals and their blend observed in DTF was not similar to that reflected in TGA. Coal blends with less than 50% of high ash coal showed better burnout than the individual coals. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Almost all coal based thermal power plants (CTPP) in India use electrostatic precipitator (ESP) for reduction of particulate matter (PM) in flue gas generated due to the combustion of Indian coal. This coal is characterized by high ash content, low calorific value and low sulfur content resulting in the generation of a very large amount of highly electrically-resistive fly-ash; thereby requiring a very large size ESP to minimize the fly-ash emissions. However, the flue-gas particle size distribution analysis showed that 60% of the particles are above 15 μm size, which can be conveniently removed using a low-cost inertial separator such as a cyclone separator. It is proposed that a cyclone be used, as a pre-cleaner to ESP so that the large size fraction of fly-ash can be removed in the pre-cleaning and the remaining flue-gas entering the ESP will then contain only small size particles with low dust loading, thereby requiring a small ESP, and improving overall efficiency of dust removal. A low efficiency (65%), high throughput cyclone is considered for pre-cleaning flue gas and the ESP is designed for removal of the remaining 35% fly- ash from the flue gas. It is observed that with 100% dust load, the ESP requires six fields per pass, whereas with cyclone as a pre-cleaner, it requires only five fields per pass. Introducing cyclone into the flue gas path results in additional head loss, which needs to be overcome by providing additional power to induced draft (ID) fan. The permissible head loss due to the cyclone is estimated by comparing the power requirement in the bag filter control unit and cyclone-ESP combined unit. It is estimated that a head loss of 10 cm of water can be permitted across the cyclone so as to design the same for 65% efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biodiesel is considered as a key prospective renewable energy source in India. Hence, a study was carried out for the improvement of palm kernel oil biodiesel production using a transesterification process at different molar ratios. This study comprehensively examined all aspects of biodiesel from optimum production to the effect of additives on its combustion behavior. The optimum yield condition was validated with the MINITAB-17 software and analyzed using the Taguchi method. Two different additives, 5% diethyl ether (DEE) and 2000 ppm Butylated hydroxyltoluene (BHT), were also experimented. Engine experiments were conducted at constant speed (1500 rpm) and five different engine loads (0, 25, 50, 75 and 100%) on a single-cylinder direct injection diesel engine. Heat release rate, brake specific fuel consumption, brake thermal efficiency, engine emissions, such as CO, HC, NOx, and smoke opacity were analyzed. The maximum palm kernel oil (PKO) biodiesel yields, obtained at 55 °C, for the KOH and NaOH catalysts were 86.69% and 75.21% at the molar ratio of 6:1. B20BHT combustion showed 4.6% higher brake thermal efficiency (BTE). NOx emission was reduced by 19.4%, compared to the diesel fuel values. DEE resulted in higher CO and HC emissions compared to diesel fuel values by 39.2% and 7.6%, respectively, whereas smoke emission was improved by 11.5%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The carbonization of woody biomass was carried out in natural draft retort reactor. • Prosopis juliflora and Casuarina equisetifolia are the most abundantly available species. • DTG analysis was used to calculate the activation energies of both biomasses. • The first-order kinetics fits more accurately for char combustion reactions. • Produced charcoal could be widely used for blast furnace and barbeque applications. Charcoal is an impure form of carbon, containing some organic matter and ash. It is derived from wood by removing the volatile organic matter and the moisture, through carbonization. Charcoal is widely used as a fuel for domestic and industrial heating applications in developing and underdeveloped countries. This research article describes the carbonization of two different woody biomass species – Prosopis Juliflora Wood (PJW) and Casuarina Equisetifolia Wood (CEW) – at different final carbonization temperatures, from 400 °C to 700 °C, through an improved natural draft charcoal retort (INDCR) reactor. The maximum yield of charcoal at 400 °C and of fixed carbon content at 700 °C, obtained from Casuarina wood, are 41.15wt% and 87.78wt%, respectively. Further, the combustion reactivity of the produced char samples was measured through thermogravimetric analysis. The results indicate that the char with higher volatile matter has a maximum burnout efficiency and charcoal reactivity. The PJW and CEW char activation energy increased from 68.28 KJ/mol to 79.32 KJ/mol and from 53.97 KJ/mol to 62.03 KJ/mol, respectively with the increment of carbonization temperature from 400 °C to 700 °C. The kinetic study of charcoal combustion concludes that PJW and CEW charcoal can be widely used for blast furnace and barbeque applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rapid depletion of petroleum resources, surge in fuel prices and stringent emission norms play a key role on economic development of a country like India in terms of energy efficiency, which attracts the researchers to search for novel alternative fuel for diesel. The work reported here focuses on the effect of various oxygenated additives such as diethyl ether, dimethyl ether and dimethyl carbonate to 20% tamarind seed methyl ester (TSME 20) biodiesel blend of different concentrations (6% and 12%) on volume basis to examine engine characteristics. The test results revealed that 12% diethyl ether added TSME20 is shown considerable enhancement in brake thermal efficiency, which is 4.22% higher over tamarind biodiesel blend. Similarly, TSME20 DEE 12 has shown significant reductions in harmful engine tailpipe emissions such as carbon monoxide, hydrocarbon, oxides of nitrogen and smoke opacity which are noted to be about 10.68%, 33.33%, 10.33% and 27.72% respectively when compared to diesel fuel at full load. Further, the DIESEL-RK theoretical simulation results are compared with the experimental values, conducted at the same operating conditions and it is inferred that 12% diethyl ether addition to TSME 20 has shown promising engine characteristics both experimentally and theoretically. Image 1 • Enhancement in engine performance parameters with oxygenated additives. • Diethyl ether 12% addition to TSME 20 had shown enhancement in thermal efficiency. • CO, NO X and smoke opacity is considerably lower for oxygenated fuel additive TSME20 blend over diesel. • Significant improvement in combustion characteristics of tamarind biodiesel with DEE addition. • Experimental results are validated with the results obtained from the DIESEL-RK software. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Pearl Millet is a low-cost and abundant biomass source for bioenergy production. • Thermogravimetric analyses (TGA) were performed under inert and air atmospheres. • Isoconversional and model-free kinetic models (FWO and KAS) well represented TGA data. • Pearl Millet is suitable for bioenergy production through thermochemical conversions. Pearl Millet (Penissetum glaucum (L.) R. Br.), ranked as the sixth most grown cereal crop in the world, is an important food crop produced in Africa and India. In this study, residues of Pearl Millet were used to evaluate its thermal decomposition characteristics through thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). TGA was made in the presence of nitrogen and air to represent pyrolysis and combustion, respectively. Thus, five different heating rates were used as 10, 20, 30, 40, 50 °C min−1 in the analyses. The kinetics and thermodynamic parameters were determined by using isoconversional models of Flynn-Wall-Ozawa (FWO) and Kissenger-Akahira-Sunose (KAS). The results showed that the average of activation energy during pyrolysis was 89.63 and 83.89 kJ mol−1, respectively, calculated by the FWO and KAS methods; while it was 57.27 and 49.47 kJ mol−1 in combustion. The low activation energies obtained from both models show that millet residues are suitable for pyrolysis and combustion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Compression Ignition (CI) engine is used to generate power for various stationary applications in remote places due to the non-availability of centralised grid connectivity. The burning diesel in CI engine leads to fossil fuel depletion and environmental degradation. Hence, there is a huge demand of generating remote electricity by utilizing available renewable resources with the help of existing CI engines. In this paper biogas (BG) and producer gas (PG) based CI engine technology for remote electricity generation in India has been reviewed. The study is organised in two sections. The first section focused on conceptualizing the influence of these gaseous fuels in CI engine as secondary fuel under dual fuel (DF) mode with diesel/biodiesel as pilot fuel. The effect of various operating parameters on the performance, combustion and emission characteristics have been reviewed. It is evident from the study that induction of gaseous fuel declines the engine performance to some extent, however emission characteristics reported to be enhanced. However, changes in the operating conditions bring with immense scope in the improvement of the engine performance. The study develops a clear understanding on the possibilities of these gases to be used as a primary source for generating rural electricity. In the second section, a discussion on the implementation of such technologies in various rural localities of India considering the biomass potential of the country has been addressed. An exhaustive review is also carried out on various electricity generating units in India powered by BG and PG individually. The literature on use of combined BG and PG units for energy generation are limited and no suitable economic model has been developed considering these gases for rural power generation. This study provides a complete insight to every pros and cons associated with such power generating units and its socio-economic impacts on rural livelihood. • Review on performance and emission behaviour of biogas run dual fuel engine. • Review on performance and emission behaviour of producer gas run dual fuel engine. • Lower NOx emission achieved with biogas and producer gas run dual fuel engine. • Discussion on need of decentralised power generation for remote electrification. • Case studies on decentralised electricity generation from clean gaseous fuel in India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]