Rajan Wilcox
Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) is an additive used in diesel engines to reduce harmful emissions. It is also known as Aqueous Urea Solution 32% (AUS 32) and is composed of 32.5% urea and 67.5% de-ionized water. DEF is injected into the exhaust system, where it reacts with nitrogen oxides (NOx) to convert them into harmless nitrogen and water. This process, known as Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR), helps diesel vehicles meet environmental standards and reduce their impact on the air and environment. DEF is typically stored in a separate tank from the conventional diesel tank and is available in varying quantities for single or repeated usage.
Characteristics and Values of Aqueous Diesel Fuel:
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Type | Aqueous Urea Solution 32% or AUS 32 |
| Composition | 32.5% urea and 67.5% de-ionized water |
| Function | Reduces harmful nitrogen oxides (NOx) emissions |
| Use | Injected into the exhaust system of diesel vehicles |
| Availability | Sold as AdBlue, a registered trademark of the German Association of the Automotive Industry |
| Storage | Should not be exposed to direct sunlight and must be kept away from corrosive materials |
| Impact | Helps diesel engines meet stringent environmental standards and reduces their impact on the environment |
| Supply | In December 2021, a shortage of DEF was reported in South Korea |
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What You'll Learn
Aqueous Urea Solution 32% (AUS 32)
Aqueous diesel fuel, also known as Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF), is an emissions control liquid designed for use in modern diesel vehicles. It is a mixture of deionized water and urea, and its primary purpose is to reduce harmful nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions from diesel engines.
AUS 32 is injected into the diesel engine's exhaust system, where it reacts with nitrogen oxide gases. This reaction converts the harmful NOx emissions into harmless water vapour and nitrogen, which are then released into the atmosphere. This process is known as Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) and is an advanced technology used to significantly reduce NOx emissions, contributing to cleaner air and environmental sustainability.
The use of AUS 32 in diesel vehicles offers several benefits. Firstly, it optimises engine performance by reducing particle emissions and maximising fuel energy generation. Secondly, it leads to a reduction in fuel consumption, with an average decrease of 5%. Additionally, the injection rate of AUS 32 is typically low, at 2-6% of diesel consumption volume, which allows for longer fluid refill intervals and a more compact tank design.
It is important to note that AUS 32 is sensitive to storage conditions. To maintain its effectiveness, it should be stored in insulated tanks or plastic containers made from suitable materials, such as alloyed steels and specific plastic materials. The recommended storage temperature is up to 25°C to avoid crystal precipitation or hydrolysis.
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Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR)
The SCR system involves several components packaged together with other parts of the emissions control system. Each manufacturer has its own variations of the type and sequencing of different components in the system. The hot exhaust gases flow out of the engine and into the SCR system, where the DEF is sprayed onto a special catalyst. The DEF sets off a chemical reaction in the exhaust that converts nitrogen oxides into nitrogen, water, and tiny amounts of carbon dioxide (CO2), which are then released into the atmosphere through the exhaust.
The SCR technology is one of the most cost-effective and fuel-efficient technologies available to help virtually eliminate emissions from diesel engines. Since 2011, all heavy-duty diesel truck engines in the US have utilized SCR technology to comply with the latest EPA emissions standards. The 2007 EPA regulations were an interim solution to allow manufacturers time to prepare for the more stringent 2010 EPA regulations, which reduced NOx levels even further.
The design of SCR technology permits nitrogen oxide (NOx) reduction reactions to take place in an oxidizing atmosphere. It is called "selective" because it reduces NOx levels using ammonia as a reductant within a catalyst system. The DEF is the reducing agent that reacts with NOx to convert the pollutants into nitrogen, water, and tiny amounts of CO2. The DEF is rapidly broken down to produce the oxidizing ammonia in the exhaust stream.
SCR technology has been widely used in all types of mobile diesel engines, including marine engines, diesel locomotives, and gas turbines. The first SCR units were installed in 1989 and 1990 on two Korean 30,000-metric ton carriers. The ships were equipped with ammonia SCR systems designed for a 92% NOx reduction. The SCR technology has also been considered for locomotive diesel engines.
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DEF suppliers
Aqueous diesel fuel, also known as Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF), is an additive for diesel-powered vehicles and heavy equipment. It is composed of 32.5% urea and 67.5% de-ionized water. DEF is injected into the exhaust system of diesel engines to reduce harmful nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions.
DEF is typically available at fuel stations, with dispensers located near diesel fuel pumps for convenient refills. However, DEF is also offered in containers for single or small usage and bulk carriers for larger requirements. As DEF is sensitive to storage conditions, suppliers must ensure it is stored away from direct sunlight and corrosive materials.
Some well-known DEF suppliers include Prime Lubes, Inc., which manufactures and distributes Blue Sky DEF for retail sale. In addition, Fuel Logic offers DEF Fluid for equipment 24/7, emphasizing the availability and reliability of their product. With the increasing demand for DEF to meet emissions standards, suppliers play a vital role in ensuring its availability and accessibility to diesel vehicle owners and operators.
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DEF dispensers
The design of DEF dispensers considers the sensitivity of DEF to storage conditions. For instance, DEF should not be exposed to direct sunlight and must be kept away from corrosive materials. Dispensers may be designed with thermal protection for cold climates to address these requirements.
The DEF market is influenced by factors such as brand reputation, quality standards, and packaging, resulting in varying prices. Consumers, businesses, and fleet managers are advised to understand DEF pricing dynamics to make informed decisions and ensure cost-effective solutions.
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DEF storage
Aqueous diesel fuel, also known as diesel exhaust fluid (DEF), is a non-toxic and non-hazardous mixture of deionised water and urea. It is used in diesel engines to reduce emissions and improve air quality. DEF is not a fuel and should not be treated as such. It is important to store DEF properly to maintain its purity and effectiveness.
To prevent contamination, it is crucial to separate DEF storage from other fuels and chemicals. Keep DEF in an isolated area with minimal surface water drains. Ensure that the filling caps on DEF containers are securely tightened to avoid evaporation, re-ionization, and crystallization. Only dedicated pumps and containers should be used for DEF, and all fittings should be safely closed and locked to prevent leaks or drips.
The distinct blue colour of DEF containers and caps helps differentiate it from other liquids, such as diesel fuel, to minimize the risk of mixing. Maintaining proper labelling of DEF storage is essential, especially in settings like airports, to avoid accidental misuse.
The shelf life of DEF can vary from 12 to 18 months, or even up to two years, depending on storage conditions. It is important to check the expiration date on the container. While DEF does not "go bad" with age, contamination by other substances, such as diesel fuel, antifreeze, or water, can render it unusable. Proper disposal of contaminated DEF should be done according to instructions and local regulations.
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Frequently asked questions
Aqueous diesel fuel, also known as Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF), is an additive for diesel-powered vehicles. It is not a fuel in the conventional sense, as it does not contribute to the combustion process.
DEF is made from a mixture of 32.5% urea and 67.5% de-ionized water.
DEF is essential for reducing harmful emissions in diesel engines. It helps convert harmful gases like nitrogen oxides (NOx) into harmless nitrogen and water.
