Hello,

I was wondering where I could find out about how a nitro r/c car engine works. Basically I am thinking of doing a chemistry practical for school (IB extended essay), where I would add things to the fuel to see how it changed its performance. First I was thinking of changing the ratio of castor oil : nitromethane. But I would also like to add some contaminants also; maybe sulphur/dirt/others. But I don't want to screw up the engine. If anyone can think off some things I can add without it killing the engine, or has any ideas about this, I would be grateful. Even if you can just link me to a website or two it would be good. I've had a look around on google but it all just seems like people trying to sell stuff. My msn is [email protected] if anyone is free to have a chat about it.

Thanks,

Sai

This is more of a PhD grade subject.

It doesn't have to be. It could simply be changing the ratio of oil : nitro and determining velocity over a distance. then adding other contaminants.

The only contaminant I would add would be water. Anything else and you have a real chance of causing severe damage to your engine. You could base your study on the differences in octane ratings by varying the balance of alcohol, nitro and oil. Alcohol and nitro have a different octane rating which obviously will yield a different power output, after a few trials you could use your experiment to predict the performance of a known mix or given a performance figure, predict the mixture of the fuel.

I have no clue what you're trying to do really.

You could add:
water
acetone
ethanol
gasoline

..... but I don't know why you want to and it might screw up the engine. Good luck.

Most contaminants will screw up your engine unless it is flammable alcohol, petrol.......... maybe try adding diesel or something