Abstract
Malaysia, the world's largest producer of palm oil, has been experimenting with the use of this oil as a diesel fuel substitute in small engines. Tests comparing the power output, efficiency, and exhaust emissions of engines consuming petroleum- and palm oil-based fuels are described. Methyl esters derived from palm oil exhibit similar thermal efficiency, reduced smoke at high loads, and lower carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxides emissions throughout the load range, when compared with diesel fuel. Future research will focus on a means of preventing excessive C deposits on injector nozzles.