AdBlue® has become a staple in the running of modern diesel vehicles and machinery. We know it lowers emissions and helps reduce global warming, but what exactly is AdBlue®, where did it come from, and why do we need it?
AdBlue® is a non-toxic aqueous solution, its ingredients are a composition of urea and deionised water. It is administered into the exhaust stream of diesel engines to reduce the harmful emissions created by combustion.
How does AdBlue® work?
AdBlue® is released through the selective catalytic reduction (SCR) system where it bonds to the nitrous oxide (NOx) gases, causing a chemical reaction that converts them to harmless nitrogen and water vapour.
Who owns AdBlue®?
AdBlue® is a trademarked type of Diesel Exhaust Fluid. The German Association of the Automobile Industry (VDA) who owns the trademark ensure the quality and chemical composition is maintained wherever it is being manufactured. In the USA, most companies use the term ‘diesel exhaust fluid’ instead of AdBlue®, but it is still the same composition. AdBlue® is globally recognised and is considered the standard for diesel exhaust fluid.
Is AdBlue® Compulsory?
In 2011, following similar environmental mandates in the USA, strict emissions reductions became compulsory in Australia for new on-road diesel vehicles. As SCR and AdBlue® technology are the leading systems to reduce noxious gases, many dealers were scrambling to import enough AdBlue® for their diesel-powered fleets. The biggest challenge has been for the mining and transport industries, that rely heavily on diesel vehicles and machinery, to ensure their businesses were compliant with the new regulations. Many modern vehicles and equipment are programmed so they cannot run without the use of AdBlue®. Fortunately, manufacturing of AdBlue® in Australia has steadily increased, allowing consistent and reliable supply across the country.
What is a DPF?
Another compulsory addition to a diesel engine’s exhaust is the Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF). Working to capture the black carbon soot produced during combustion of diesel fuel. Together with the AdBlue®-powered SCR, modern diesel engines can reduce harmful emissions from diesel engines by 99%.
Diesel engines previously had a reputation for billowing black smoke through the air, but AdBlue® has revolutionised their ability to run clean and practically emission-free. The addition of AdBlue® to diesel vehicles has reduced the harmful effects of NOx gases in the atmosphere and is contributing to the fight to slow global warming.
