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What is AdBlue: The ultimate guide

AdBlue is crucial for exhaust gas purification in modern diesel vehicles. It consists of pure urea and demineralized water. This liquid significantly reduces harmful nitrogen oxide emissions.

AdBlue tanks have been standard equipment in many diesel models since 2014. They significantly improve the environmental friendliness of this type of drive. AdBlue enables diesel vehicles to comply with strict emission standards.

At the same time, the efficiency of the vehicles is maintained. This innovative solution is an important step towards clean mobility.

Important findings

  • AdBlue consists of around 67% demineralized water and 33% urea
  • An average SUV consumes 1.5 to 2 liters of AdBlue per 1,000 kilometers
  • AdBlue tanks in passenger cars hold between 10 and 30 liters
  • AdBlue has a shelf life of around 12 months if stored correctly
  • Vehicles warn of low AdBlue levels in good time
  • AdBlue is essential for modern agricultural machinery
  • AdBlue consumption in tractors is 6-8% of diesel consumption

What is AdBlue and its composition

AdBlue is a special urea solution for diesel vehicles. It consists of 32.5% high-purity urea and 67.5% demineralized water. This solution helps to significantly reduce pollutant emissions.

Chemical properties and production

AdBlue is produced in large-scale plants by blending. This involves mixing synthetic urea with demineralized water. The urea content varies between 31.8 and 33.2 percent by weight.

At 20°C, AdBlue has a density of 1.087 to 1.093 g/cm³. Its dynamic viscosity is 1.4 mPa-s.

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Technical specifications according to ISO 22241

The ISO 22241 standard regulates the quality of AdBlue. It specifies strict requirements for purity and composition. The number of licensees has been steadily increasing since 2009.

In March 2021, there were already 224 certified AdBlue manufacturers worldwide.

Storage and shelf life

AdBlue crystallizes at -11.5°C. For optimum shelf life, it should be stored in a cool, dark place. If stored correctly, AdBlue will keep for about a year.

Contamination should be avoided as it can impair its effectiveness.

AdBlue in SCR systems can reduce nitrogen oxide emissions by up to 97%. One liter of AdBlue neutralizes about 540 g of nitrogen oxides.

Consumption is typically between 1% and 5% of fuel consumption. It varies depending on the vehicle type and driving style.

Functionality and consumption in the vehicle

AdBlue works closely with SCR technology. This method cleans exhaust gases in modern diesel engines. It plays an important role in reducing pollutants.

SCR technology in diesel engines

AdBlue is injected into the exhaust gas flow. It converts harmful nitrogen oxides into nitrogen and water vapor. This method reduces the nitrogen oxide content in the exhaust gas by 80 to 90 percent.

AdBlue functionality

Average consumption per kilometer

AdBlue consumption depends on the vehicle model and driving conditions. It is usually between 1 and 1.5 liters per 1000 kilometers.

A Mercedes E 220 d consumes around 1.5 liters of AdBlue per 1000 kilometers. An Audi A6 Avant manages with less than 1 liter.

Tank volume and refill intervals

The size of the AdBlue tank varies depending on the vehicle model. Smaller tanks hold around 8 liters, larger ones up to 40 liters.

At Audi, the range extends from 12 liters in the Q2 to 24 liters. The A4 can be optionally equipped with a larger tank.

Warning messages and necessary measures

Modern vehicles warn of low AdBlue levels in good time. A message appears when the supply is sufficient for around 2000 kilometers.

It is then important to top up promptly. This keeps the SCR system functioning optimally. Engine performance restrictions are also avoided.

Conclusion

AdBlue is an important technology for environmentally friendly diesel vehicles. It reduces nitrogen oxide emissions by up to 90%. AdBlue consists of 32.5% urea and 67.5% demineralized water.

AdBlue has been mandatory for new vehicles since September 2015. Consumption is around 0.2 liters per 100 kilometers. Refills are necessary every 5,000 to 15,000 kilometers.

As a vehicle owner, you should know the importance of AdBlue. It enables environmentally conscious driving without loss of performance. AdBlue costs between 0.50 and 1.50 euros per liter at filling stations.

With AdBlue you are actively contributing to environmental protection. You are well equipped for the future of diesel technology.

FAQ

What is AdBlue and what is it used for?

AdBlue is a urea solution for modern diesel vehicles. It cleans exhaust gases and reduces nitrogen oxide emissions. AdBlue helps vehicles to comply with strict environmental regulations.AdBlue is injected into the exhaust gas flow in a separate tank. There it converts harmful nitrogen oxides into harmless nitrogen and water vapor.

What is the composition of AdBlue?

AdBlue consists of 32.5% high-purity urea and 67.5% deionized water. The ISO 22241 standard strictly regulates this composition.This ensures consistent quality and effectiveness. It is produced by mixing synthetic urea with demineralized water.

How does SCR technology with AdBlue work?

SCR technology uses AdBlue to reduce nitrogen oxides in the exhaust gas. AdBlue is injected into the hot exhaust gas stream and decomposes.In the SCR catalytic converter, the resulting ammonia reacts with the nitrogen oxides. These are converted into harmless nitrogen and water vapor.In this way, diesel engines meet strict emission regulations without any loss of performance.

How much AdBlue does a vehicle consume on average?

AdBlue consumption depends on the type of vehicle, engine and driving conditions. Cars consume an average of 1.5 to 2.5 liters per 1000 km.Trucks have a higher consumption of around 1.5 to 2 liters per 100 km. These values may vary depending on driving style and operating conditions.

How often does AdBlue need to be topped up?

The refilling intervals depend on the tank volume and consumption. For passenger cars, one filling is often sufficient for 10,000 to 20,000 km.Modern vehicles warn in good time when the AdBlue level is low. The tank should be topped up at this point at the latest, otherwise the vehicle will not start.Many drivers top up with AdBlue at every oil change or inspection.

Can I top up AdBlue myself?

Yes, you can refill AdBlue yourself. There are AdBlue pumps at filling stations and canisters for sale.Only use AdBlue in accordance with the ISO 22241 standard. Wear gloves when refilling and avoid contact with paint or metal.If you are unsure, a workshop can refill the tank.

What happens if AdBlue runs out?

Without AdBlue, the vehicle will no longer start. Modern diesel vehicles warn you in good time when the AdBlue level is low.If warnings are ignored, the engine power gradually decreases. Eventually, the vehicle can no longer be started.This prevents operation without exhaust gas purification and ensures compliance with emissions regulations.

How do I store AdBlue correctly?

AdBlue should be stored in a cool, dark place at -11°C to 30°C. Extreme temperatures and sunlight can impair the quality.Unopened AdBlue will keep for about two years. Opened containers should be used within a few months.Store AdBlue in original containers and avoid contamination or strong ammonia odors.

Simon Lüthje

I am co-founder of this blog and am very interested in everything that has to do with technology, but I also like to play games. I was born in Hamburg, but now I live in Bad Segeberg.

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