Journal of Renewable Engineering
Vol. 3 No. 1 (2026): JORE - February

Performance and Emission Assessment of Tree-Based Biofuel Additives in Compression Ignition Engines: A Review

Ilmi , Ilmi (Unknown)
Sitorus, Tulus Burhanuddin (Unknown)
Siagian, Parulian (Unknown)
Sihombing, Roland (Unknown)



Article Info

Publish Date
05 Feb 2026

Abstract

This study reviews the performance and emissions of compression ignition (CI) engines using Calophyllum inophyllum (CIME/tamanu)-based biofuel additives through a narrative review of the latest international literature. Inclusion criteria encompassed CI engine test studies reporting efficiency metrics (BTE, BSFC) and key emissions (CO, HC, NOx, smoke/PM) for CIME blends (B10–B100) both without and with additive/mitigation strategies. In general, compared to diesel, CIME reduced CO, HC, and smoke/PM, with a trade-off increase in NOx. The addition of oxygenated additives (e.g., n-pentanol, dimethyl carbonate) and ignition improvers (e.g., DTBP) tends to improve combustion quality, reduce BSFC, and suppress CO/HC; while the application of approximately 10% EGR effectively reduces NOx with a moderate penalty on HC/CO/smoke. Nano-additives (graphene/MWCNT) show potential for increasing BTE and reducing smoke, but present issues of dispersion stability and safety/environment. The most balanced performance generally occurs at low–medium blends (≈B10–B20) combined with oxygenated additives and EGR-based NOx control, accompanied by proper injection calibration. From a sustainability perspective, C. inophyllum—as a non-food source with high FFA pretreatment requirements—has the potential to support transportation decarbonization, although industrial-scale success depends on supply chains, policies, and LCA/TEA results. Further studies are recommended on real-world test cycles, long-term durability, aftertreatment compatibility, and comprehensive environmental assessment.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

JORE

Publisher

Subject

Automotive Engineering Civil Engineering, Building, Construction & Architecture Control & Systems Engineering Electrical & Electronics Engineering Engineering Industrial & Manufacturing Engineering

Description

The journal publishes original articles on current issues and trends occurring internationally in mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, civil engineering, physical engineering, chemical engineering, industrial engineering, informatics engineering, telecommunications engineering, computer ...