General matrix method for critical investigation of physical properties of biodiesels: A comprehensive study

Abstract

General matrix method is developed for the understanding of properties of biodiesel blends. This paper presents systematic investigations and overview of state-of-the-art methods for the analysis of density ($\rho$) and viscosity ($\mu$) and comprehensive study of $\rho$ and $\mu$ of biodiesel blends using matrix method for the available reports. The critical investigations on key issues of existing empirical relations and models are discussed. Investigations focus distinctly on the relevant aspects of generalization of matrix method over the contemporary studies and perspectives reported in the literature. Matrix method is found to be one of the most general methods with which the empirical relations for $\rho$ and $\mu$ for any biodiesel blends can be generated. For the first time, the critical analysis and direct comparison of unique correlation constants for each biodiesel blends connecting to rate of variation of properties of biodiesel blends with temperature and volume percent are presented. The degree of accuracy of the method is highlighted in view of past decade experimental and modelling reports. The matrix method is advantageous over existing correlations with its simplicity, direct comparison possibilities and general applicability to all biodiesel blends. Our study gives new fundamental insights for physical properties of biodiesel blends and provides practical road map for biodiesel blends applications.