If you operate heavy duty diesel vehicle as part of a fleet, you’ve probably already heard of AdBlue. With emission standards tightening across the globe in a big to reduce pollution and meet climate agreements, AdBlue is being used as a way to reduce the emissions in your fuel by breaking down harmful nitrogen oxides.

What is AdBlue, how does it work and why would I use it?

AdBlue, of course, is just the fancy marketing name for Aqueous Urea Solution or Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF). The fluid in the bottle is made from de-ionised water and urea, an organic compound which is the main nitrogenous breakdown product of protein metabolism of humans and mammals, which is then excreted in urine.

And in case you were wondering, no you cannot use urine instead. The urea in AdBlue is highly concentrated – around 32.5% compared to the 3% found in urine - which is necessary for AdBlue to work effectively. Urea is also commonly used in fertiliser to promote growth but is now aiding the fight on pollution.

AdBlue utilises a technology called Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) and is stored in a separate tank on the truck. When the vehicle is powered on, AdBlue is sprayed in metered doses into the exhaust stream causing a reaction which converts oxides of nitrogen emissions into harmless gas and water vapour.

Many businesses opt for AdBlue to help meet the latest European legislation of diesel engine emissions but in some cases, SCR technology is necessary for the vehicle to be operational in Australia. The fluid is clear, non-toxic, non-explosive, non-flammable and provided it is handled correctly, is completely harmless to the environment.

How much AdBlue is needed and does it cost much?

For heavy vehicles, AdBlue is refilled every second diesel fuel delivery, but may depend on the individual vehicle. You generally need around five litres every 100 litres of diesel fuel. Bottles of AdBlue last up to 12 months as long as they are stored correctly, or you can pump fresh AdBlue into your tank at your local station or with the help of a diesel fuel delivery provider. AdBlue is relatively inexpensive compared to motor oil, however the price can fluctuate based on the cost of urea production.

At Bulk Fuel Australia, we can supply AdBlue to all our customers, along with a wide range of quality lubricants to help minimise downtime and carry out scheduled maintenance. To find out more about how our on-site fuel and lubricant service can save you time and money and protect your fleet and equipment, contact us today on 1300 57 9990.