Journal of Engineering in Industrial Research

h-index: 18     i10-index: 25

Performance and Emission Characteristics of a Spark Ignition Engine Fueled With Gasoline–Bioethanol Blends Derived from Different Biomass Sources

Document Type : Review Article

Authors

Nasiru Yunusa 1
Abubakar Fachway Ali 1
Muhammad Hadi Ibrahim 2
Yakubu Adamu 3
Nafiu Ishak Adamu 4

1 Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Engineering Technology, atbu Bauchi, Nigeria

2 Department of Automotive Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Engineering Technology, Atbu Bauchi, Nigeria

3 Department of Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Engineering technology, Atbu Bauchi, Nigeria

4 Department of Mechanical/Production Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Engineering Technology, Abubakar Tafawa Balewa Univer-sity, Bauchi, Nigeria

https://doi.org/10.48309/jeires.2026.536226.1270
Abstract
The growing need for cleaner energy sources has positioned bioethanol as a viable alternative to gasoline in spark-ignition engines. This overview examines how blending gasoline with bioethanol from diverse feedstocks like sugarcane, corn, lignocellulosic materials, and algae impacts engine performance and emissions. Bioethanol's high oxygen content and octane rating enhance combustion, reducing carbon monoxide and hydrocarbon emissions. However, its lower energy density may compromise power output and efficiency. The effect on nitrogen oxides (NOₓ) is condition-dependent: while certain blends (E10–E20) may lower NOₓ due to cooler combustion, higher blends or specific load conditions can increase NOₓ formation. Blends containing 10–30% ethanol typically improve thermal efficiency and reduce emissions without requiring significant engine modifications. Higher ethanol blends might increase fuel consumption and cold-start difficulties. While second-generation bioethanol offers substantial environmental advantages, its production poses challenges. This review identifies the key research gap: the need to optimize higher ethanol blends and clarify NOₓ behavior under different operating conditions. Blends with up to 30% ethanol strike a balance between performance and sustainability, making them a practical choice.

Graphical Abstract

Performance and Emission Characteristics of a Spark Ignition Engine Fueled With Gasoline–Bioethanol Blends Derived from Different Biomass Sources

Keywords

Bioethanol&ndash
gasoline blends
Spark ignition engine
Engine performance
Emission characteristics
NOₓ emissions
Thermal efficiency

Subjects

OPEN ACCESS

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Journal of Engineering in Industrial Research
Volume 7, Issue 2
Spring 2026
Pages 139-148

  • Receive Date 22 July 2025
  • Revise Date 22 October 2025
  • Accept Date 16 November 2025

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