AS the demand for cleaner diesel technology grows, WearCheck, a specialist condition monitoring company, emphasises the importance of proper storage and handling of AdBlue®/Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF).
The company’s water analysis division, WearCheck Water, operates ISO 17025-accredited laboratories to test AdBlue®/DEF, ensuring top-tier quality control for DEF used in commercial vehicles.
Fleet operators use AdBlue®/DEF to reduce harmful emissions from diesel engines through Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) technology. NOx (nitrogen oxide) is a major contributor to air pollution and is subject to strict environmental regulations.
Importance of correct AdBlue®/DEF storage
General manager of WearCheck Water, Thelma Horsfield, emphasises that AdBlue® plays a critical role in reducing NOx emissions. “However,” she says, “its effectiveness depends heavily on correct storage and handling practices.
“We have recently witnessed an increase in the number of warranty claims with OEMs being rejected due to poor Adblue® quality. A potential cause of this is AdBlue® suppliers and wholesalers not storing it correctly, leading to on-site contamination from soils, microbes, oils and greases.”
Horsfield offers the following guidelines for proper AdBllue® storage, based on ISO 22241:
- Store AdBlue® between 0°C and 30°C to prevent degradation.
- Shelf life: 12 months (stored at 30°C), 18–24 months (stored at 25°C or below).
- Avoid direct exposure to sunlight.
- Use dedicated containers (high-density polyethylene or stainless steel) to prevent contamination.
- Ensure dispensing systems remain unsoiled.
- Keep storage containers properly sealed.
- Avoid cross-contamination – never use diesel/oil containers to store or handle AdBlue®.
- Label containers clearly.
Risks of incorrect AdBlue® storage
Improper handling can lead to contaminated fluid, resulting in SCR system damage, reduced emission efficiency, and costly repairs. Contamination also poses environmental risks.
Horsfield underscores the need for industry-wide awareness: “WearCheck Water ensures that transport operators have access to reliable AdBlue® testing services in Africa.
Ensuring proper storage and fluid integrity is not just about vehicle maintenance—it’s about meeting global emissions standards and protecting our environment. WearCheck Water is committed to supporting fleets with accurate analysis and guidance on best practices for DEF management.”
Contaminated AdBlue® can have serious consequences for a diesel engine’s SCR system, including:
- Clogging of SCR system.
- Corrosion and damage to components.
- Crystallisation and deposits, clogging of injectors and pipes.
- Warning lights/limp mode activation.
- Increased emissions and legal non-compliance.
In short, says Horsfield, here’s what not to do with AdBlue®:
- Don’t store in metal drums (unless stainless steel).
- Don’t expose to extreme heat or freezing.
- Don’t mix with water, fuel, or any other liquid.
- Don’t reuse fuel/diesel equipment for handling AdBlue.
If contamination is suspected, never use the fluid—rather test or replace it immediately to avoid damaging the SCR system.
“Avoid buying contaminated Adblue® – purchase it from suppliers that are registered with the VDA (German Association of the Automotive Industry) as certified Adblue® suppliers, implementing ISO 22241-1 to ISO 22241-4 standards,” concludes Horsfield.
As emission regulations tighten, WearCheck Water remains at the forefront, helping fleet operators to maintain compliance, optimise vehicle performance, and reduce environmental impact through rigorous testing and expert guidance.
Visit www.wearcheck.co.za or email marketing@wearcheck.co.za for more info.
