USE OF HYDRO-REFINED VEGETABLE OIL WITH ADDED HYDROGEN IN MARINE DIESEL ENGINES: CURRENT STATUS AND APPLICATION PROBLEMS
Abstract
Introduction. The article focuses on the use of alternative fuels in marine internal combustion engines. Namely, the operating mode of marine diesel engines on hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO) with a hydrogen (H2) additive is analyzed to reduce emissions and improve fuel efficiency without significant restructuring of the ship's power plant. HVO is considered a paraffinic renewable diesel fuel with a high cetane number, while hydrogen is treated as an intake gas additive that modifies the early stages of combustion. Purpose. This study aims to summarize data on the operation of diesel engines using HVO and in HVO–H2 mode, and to evaluate the effect of small hydrogen fractions on ignition delay, combustion phasing, heat release rate shape, and maximum pressure. Changes in BSFC/SFOC, NOₓ, and particulate matter are also considered. Results. It is demonstrated that HVO can be used as the primary fuel, provided its density is accounted for in the dosing strategy and that lubricity and fuel system compatibility are ensured. In neat-fuel mode, HVO provides more stable auto-ignition and lower smoke and particulate emissions, with no noticeable loss in fuel economy. Adding small fractions of H2 into the intake reduces ignition delay, shifts the CA50 towards TDC, and decreases soot formation; however, it increases peak temperatures and pressure rise rates, which promotes higher NOₓ formation. The summarized results are presented as harmonized tables and a three-dimensional compromise surface, “H2 share – change in BSFC – change in NOₓ,” which highlights regions of benefit and risk. Conclusions. The HVO operating mode with gaseous hydrogen enrichment (HVO–H2) is identified as a technically promising intermediate solution for marine diesel engines, capable of reducing particulate emissions and smoke without significant loss of fuel economy, provided that combustion phasing, the air path, and aftertreatment systems are properly coordinated. The need for longterm tests on large marine engines and for standardised procedures for safe hydrogen handling is emphasised.
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