What is AdBlue?
Composition and definition
AdBlue- purity urea, according to ISO 22241. This fluid is used in diesel vehicles (commercial vehicles, agricultural machinery, construction trucks, heavy goods vehicles) equipped with an SCR (Selective Catalytic Reduction) system. This type of equipment reduces nitrogen oxide emissions released when the diesel engine is running.
What is AdBlue used for?
AdBlue is injected into the engine's exhaust system and reacts with atmospheric pollutants, specifically nitrogen oxides, transforming them into nitrogen and water vapor. This product helps limit the impact of exhaust gases on the atmosphere, thus reducing pollution .
Since when has it been mandatory?
With the aim of aligning with environmental protection and reducing exhaust emissions from each vehicle, AdBluehas become mandatory in most countries when vehicles are equipped with an SCR, as is the case in Europe with the regulatory texts from the Euro 4 standard (2005).
AdBlue: a highly regulated additive
Where can I buy AdBlue?
Several businesses offerAdBlue for sale to both individuals and professionals: large retailers, gas stations, auto parts stores, and some specialized online shops. AdBlue is generally available in various sizes of containers at prices that vary in price. Before purchasing, it's essential to check the quality of the refill product and ensure its compatibility with your vehicle. For professionals, it's also possible to install tanks or cisterns and purchase AdBlue in bulk.
How do I refuel?
To use AdBlue optimally, simply pour it into the designated reservoir (next to the fuel tank) using a specific nozzle or pump. Be careful not to pourAdBlue directly into the vehicle's fuel tank, as this can cause malfunctions and damage the engine.
Can it be replaced?
This fluid, specifically designed to reduce polluting gas emissions, cannot be replaced by other chemical or liquid alternatives, which would cause significant damage to the vehicle. Despite rumors circulating online, AdBlue cannot be replaced with water or urine. While it does contain urea, its composition is entirely different. These practices are prohibited because they are dangerous for the integrity of the vehicle's equipment.
Is it possible to make your own liquid?
Knowing the formula for manufacturing AdBlue and its characteristics as outlined in ISO 22241might tempt you to make your own. However, it is the industrial manufacturing process and optimal dosage that serve as quality markers for AdBlue, a trademark registered by the VDA (German Association of the Automotive Industry). ISO 22241 comprises four distinct sections: ISO 22241-1, ISO 22241-2, ISO 22241-3, and ISO 22241-4, each specifying requirements that meet manufacturing standards .Therefore, it is strongly advised against playing amateur chemist and risking damage to your vehicle.
The impacts of AdBlue for professionals
What types of vehicles are affected?
AdBlue technology is a solution to be poured into the tank of several types of diesel vehicles including some recent private cars, but especially heavy goods vehicles, mobile cranes, agricultural (tractors) and construction equipment as well as utility vehicles.
Shelf life and storage conditions
This solution of demineralized water and urea is colorless and biodegradable, posing no danger to human health or the environment. AdBlue liquid can be stored inside a dwelling under certain conditions:
- Choose a location at room temperature, ideally between 10°C and 25°C. Note that AdBlue crystallizes at -11°C and evaporates above 30°C.
- Avoid exposing AdBlue to direct heat sources such as sunlight.
- Do not store an open container, pour it entirely into the tank.
- Ensure that the product's shelf life does not exceed 18 months from its date of manufacture.
Prices are rising
AdBlue prices vary depending on the point of sale, whether it's a dedicated service station or an automotive parts store, where it's sold in containers. Generally, the average price is €2.50/L , or about €25 for 10 liters of AdBlue in containers, compared to an average of €1.15 per liter at service stations with dispensing pumps. Inflation has not spared this emissions reduction technology; the reason is the war between Russia and Ukraine, linked to the increased price of the gas used in AdBlue production. AdBlue consumption by road transport , agricultural vehicles , and all other professionals using diesel-powered equipment and vehicles with a suitable tank is increasing due to the soaring price.
While this fluid helps to reduce pollution, there are other combined solutions that can reduce environmental pollution as well as Adblue consumption .
The ECOLOW fuel saver
TheECOLOW fuel saver reduces a vehicle's energy consumption, both in terms of fuel and, logically, AdBlue. This technology required years of development, testing, and modifications before resulting in the only truly effective module currently available on the market. The ECOLOW system meets the mandatory standards for aftermarket accessories and is therefore fully EEC approved. There is no impact on the engine, and you retain your original manufacturer's warranty.
Complementary to the use of AdBlue , it maximizes the lifespan of this biodegradable liquid, contributes to reducing polluting emissions and reduces vehicle fuel consumption by up to 20%, depending on the sectors and equipment used!
An anti-inflation ally, it saved more than 446,000 tonnes of CO2 in February 2023 with more than 95% of satisfied customers, in the field of road transport as well as those from agriculture, public works, tourism or maritime transport.