The Optimization of Surfactants Use to Produce Biodiesel-Diesel-Water Emulsion and Nano-Emulsion Fuels

In the present study, we aimed to investigate the optimum amount of surfactants to be used in emulsion and nano-emulsion fuels. This would ideally overcome the probable setbacks rooted in surfactant over use and dramatically decrease fuel production expanses, while preserving the fuel stability. In this regard, tween80 and span80 were exploited to produce emulsion and nano-emulsion fuels. The biodiesel-diesel-water emulsion and nano-emulsion fuels were produced in different quantities and HLBs of surfactant. All evaluations were carried out using the B5 as the base fuel and water volume percentage of 5. The produced emulsions had milky and turbid appearance. Being stable for 8 days, the emulsion with HLB of 6 indicates the highest stability. The volume percentage of 1 at HLB of 6 was determined to be the minimum amount of the surfactants required to produce biodiesel-diesel-water emulsions. Moreover, the volume percentage of 5 with HLB of 8 is reported to be the minimum amount of surfactants required to produce nano-emulsion.