Synthesis gas use in internal combustion engines.

Abstract

The objective of this dissertation was to investigate the combustion characteristics of a compression ignition, spark ignition, and homogeneous charge compression ignition engine operating on various blends of synthesis gas. To fully investigate the three ICE operating regimes, experimental investigations were carried out to focus on: 1.) A CI engine operating on ethanol and hydrogen fuel 2.) A CI engine operating on diesel fuel with varying blends of synthesis gas 3.) A SI engine operating on varying blends of synthesis gas <DISS_para>4.) An HCCI engine operating on hydrogen fuel 5.) An HCCI engine operating on varying blends of synthesis gas The three operating modes (CI, SI, and HCCI) were selected because it is unlikely that an engine will be able to operate solely in an HCCI regime throughout the complete load range. The more common CI and SI regimes will likely be necessary for high load engine operation. The results from this doctoral work sheds light into the fundamental aspects of syngas combustion and also provides a foundation for future gasification plant designers and synthesis gas producers, regarding the fuel composition needs of a syngas powered internal combustion engine. The first 3 chapters of this dissertation provide an introduction and background for this doctoral work. The remaining chapters present the results and conclusions