Like other chemicals, AdBlue® also has a shelf life. Do you still remember AdBlue®? This product is an innovation that works by injecting synthetic urea liquid into vehicle exhaust gas.
This urea then reacts with nitrogen oxide (NOx) and converts it into nitrogen and water, which are not harmful to the environment. So it’s true, AdBlue® is an offer of a solution to improve our air quality.
It is important to understand the signs of expired AdBlue® and its potential impact on vehicle performance. Check out the discussion on this topic in this article.
The shelf life of AdBlue® is determined by the ISO 22241-3 standard. Although not easily degraded, AdBlue® has a shelf life that needs to be considered. The storage temperature of DEF (diesel exhaust fluid) ranges from 10°C to 30°C. At a constant temperature of up to 30°C the product will last at least 12 months, while at a constant temperature of up to 35°C, the shelf life is reduced to a minimum of 6 months.
Proper storage involves a cool, dry place protected from direct sunlight. When stored in ideal conditions, AdBlue® can maintain its quality for a long period of time.
“The shelf life of AdBlue® varies, AdBlue® manufacturers must include at least the production date on each package,” said Rama Nugraha and Genta Ginanjar, AdBlue® manufacturers, recently.
Signs of Expiry
Expired AdBlue® can show several signs to look out for. One of the most obvious signs is a change in color. Fresh AdBlue® is clear or slightly blue in color, while expired AdBlue® can turn darker or yellowish.
This color change indicates degradation in the AdBlue® composition which can affect its performance. Additionally, an unusual odor can also be an indication of expired AdBlue®. Fresh AdBlue® generally does not have a noticeable odor.
If you smell a strong, unpleasant or fishy odor, it could be that AdBlue® has degraded and is no longer effective in reducing vehicle emissions.
Using expired AdBlue® can have a negative impact on vehicle performance. Expired AdBlue® can damage components of the vehicle’s SCR system, such as the catalyst and sensors. This can result in significant repair costs and affect overall engine performance.
Please note that AdBlue® is no longer effective in reducing nitrogen oxide (NOx) levels, which can lead to increased emissions that could potentially violate environmental emission standards. Therefore, it is important for diesel vehicle owners to pay attention to the shelf life of AdBlue® and its expiration signs. Regularly checking and replacing AdBlue® is an important preventive measure to maintain vehicle performance and ensure compliance with environmental regulations.
Read other Articles: Own a Diesel Engine Vehicle, Pay Attention to the Importance of Diesel Exhaust Fluid Quality