DPV Blends as Sustainable Diesel Alternatives: A Comprehensive Engine Performance and Emissions Study

This study investigates the performance and emission characteristics of Diesel–Plastic Pyrolysis Oil–Vegetable Oil (DPV) blends as sustainable alternatives to fossil diesel. Waste-derived plastic oil (PO), obtained via pyrolysis, was blended with vegetable oils—Soybean oil (SO) and Mahua oil (MO)—to formulate low-viscosity, low-cetane (LVLC) fuels. These blends were evaluated for physicochemical properties, engine performance, and emissions compliance with EN 590:2022 standards. Optimized double blends (PO/SO and PO/MO) were further mixed with fossil diesel in varying proportions to form triple blends, tested in a CI engine under different loads. The results showed that DPV blends improved thermal efficiency and reduced BSFC, with the B60-PSO blend demonstrating a 12% increase in brake thermal efficiency compared to pure diesel. The B60-PSO blend also achieved a 15% reduction in BSFC at a 5 kW load. Emission analysis revealed significant reductions in CO (20%), NOₓ (10%), and soot (40%), while CO₂ emissions slightly increased by 5%, indicating more complete combustion. Among all blends, B60-PSO and B20-PMO achieved the best balance between performance and emissions. The B60-PSO blend showed up to 10% higher thermal efficiency compared to conventional diesel. This study highlights DPV fuels as cost-effective, drop-in replacements for diesel, supporting circular economy principles and aligning with global sustainability goals, offering a scalable interim energy solution during the transition toward cleaner propulsion technologies.