Many modern diesel vehicles use Adblue to meet emission standards. This applies to trucks, heavy commercial vehicles, ships and tractors, and different passenger cars. But what is Adblue, and how does it work? This article will elaborate on this in more detail.

What is Adblue?

Adblue is a clear mixture of demineralized water and pure urea (32.5%) and is also referred to as Diesel Exhaust Fluid or AUS 32. It is designed to reduce harmful emissions of nitrogen oxides (NOx) from diesel vehicles to non-hazardous gases to comply with more stringent emission standards.

When is Adblue used?

The best Adblue is used in vehicles with a Selective Catalytic Reduction catalyst or SCR. An SCR catalyst ensures that exhaust gases are treated before leaving the vehicle. A large proportion of the heavy-duty vehicles complying with the Euro 4, Euro 5 and Euro 6 standards are equipped with an SCR system and therefore use AdBlue. This applies to most trucks after 2005; the first passenger cars with diesel engines and SCR were introduced in response to the Euro 6 standard in 2014.

An SCR is located behind the particulate filter in the exhaust. When a certain amount of NOx wants to enter the catalyst, a measured dose of AdBlue is injected from the Adblue reservoir. The SCR catalyst converts the Adblue into ammonia and a small carbon dioxide. The formed ammonia reacts with the NOx, creating the non-hazardous substances nitrogen and water. The SCR catalyst ensures that this reaction takes place quickly and sufficiently.

Adding Adblue

When driving a vehicle using Adblue, you will get a message on the dashboard if the Adblue needs to be topped up. You can do this yourself or have it done at your garage. It is important to follow up on this message as soon as possible; a too low Adblue level may prevent your vehicle from starting.

The location of the Adblue reservoir varies. Passenger cars are usually located next to the diesel filling aperture, recognizable by the blue cap. Sometimes, however, the Adblue tank is located in a different place. Consult your vehicle’s manual if necessary. For trucks, it is often possible to refill Adblue at the larger filling stations; for passenger cars and vans, small package sizes are available. However, the Adblue mustn’t be refilled until you receive a refill notification. If the reservoir is refilled earlier and thus becomes too full, the liquid crystallizes at the filling neck, which can deform. If Adblue is spilled, it is advisable to remove the liquid with a sponge and warm water.

It is recommended that specialized technicians provide refills. If you choose to refuel, do not allow the fluid to come into contact with the skin and be careful to avoid any spills as this may damage the car’s paintwork. If this happens, clean the area where you spilled the Adblue and, if necessary, wash the area with water. If spilled on clothing and hands, rinse thoroughly with clean water.

For your SCR system to function correctly, it is important to use the best Adblue available in the market.

Regular refuelling your Adblue guarantees a more environmental and efficient driving experience.