AdBlue for Agriculture

What is AdBlue?

AdBlue is a solution of high-purity urea (32.5%) and deionised water (67.5%) which reduces emissions from the diesel engines of vehicles like tractors, trucks, buses, and agricultural equipment. It is clear and non-toxic, so it’s safe to use and store on the farm. Verband der Automobilindustrie e.V. (VDA) approved AdBlue is often produced by fertiliser plants, as it involves many of the same ingredients and processes

How Does AdBlue Work?

An engine equipped to use AdBlue will have a separate DEF tank from the diesel tank. The AdBlue is automatically injected into the exhaust system in amounts carefully controlled by the engine’s electronic control unit (ECU), based on the conditions of the engine.

Once injected into the exhaust, the AdBlue comes into contact with the SCR system. This uses the heat of the exhaust to cause a chemical reaction between the Nitrous Oxide (NO2 or NOx) in the exhaust gas and the urea (CH4N2O) in the AdBlue, producing Nitrogen gas (N), water vapour (H2O) and carbon dioxide (CO2). These gasses are then released into the atmosphere, causing much less air pollution than NOx.

How Farms Use AdBlue

Farms and agricultural businesses use AdBlue with any equipment with both a diesel engine and an SCR system. This includes vehicles, tractors, quadbikes, pumps and generators. Because most farming facilities have multiple diesel vehicles operating daily, buying and storing AdBlue in bulk is a cost-effective strategy, creating minimal waste packaging and allowing convenient top-ups to multiple vehicles.

To use AdBlue effectively, there are a few considerations and precautions that should be taken:

1. Use high-quality AdBlue: Use only high-quality AdBlue that meets the ISO 22241 standard. Low-quality or contaminated AdBlue can damage the SCR system and lead to increased emissions.
2. Store AdBlue properly: AdBlue should be stored in a cool, dry, and clean environment, away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Keep it in its original sealed container until it is ready to be used. Provided it is stored properly, a bulk container can be stored for 18 months.
3. Handle AdBlue carefully: Although AdBlue is a non-toxic solution, it should be handled carefully to avoid spills or splashes. If it comes into contact with skin or eyes, rinse it with water immediately. A small spill can be diluted with water and mopped up, but larger spills should be treated with care. Avoid large amounts of adblue entering drains or waterways. Instead, use a spill kit to absorb the fluid and dispose of it safely.
4. Refill AdBlue regularly: AdBlue should be refilled regularly to ensure that the SCR system is working effectively. Most diesel engines and equipment have a warning light or message that indicates when AdBlue levels are getting low.
5. Do not mix AdBlue with other substances: AdBlue should not be mixed with diesel fuel, water, or any other substances. This can damage the SCR system and lead to expensive repairs to your engines, so you should avoid contamination at all costs.

Using AdBlue for agricultural vehicles is safe and effective, and skipping refilling your AdBlue tanks is not worth the reduction in performance that your engine will face.