Optimizing algae biodiesel blends with aqueous ammonia and nanocomposite for enhanced performance and environmental benefits

Abstract

In this study, an aqueous ammonia emulsion and a zinc sulfide/copper (ZnS/Cu) nanocomposite were blended with an algae biodiesel-diesel blend, and the optimum levels of parameters were identified for enhanced performance and reduced emissions. The algae were cultivated concurrently with wastewater treatment, and the biodiesel's properties as well as the nanocomposite's structural and surface morphology were analyzed. Response surface methodology was employed for optimization, and confirmation tests were conducted. The results indicate that algae cultivation effectively removes wastewater nutrients, and the optimal values of process parameters were determined to be 10% biodiesel, 14% aqueous ammonia, and 95 ppm of ZnS/Cu.

Keywords

• Chlorella vulgaris algae biodiesel
• Aqueous ammonia emulsion
• ZnS/Cu nanocomposite
• Nanocomposite characterization
• Optimization