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How to safely store AdBlue

What is AdBlue?

AdBlue is a urea based solution added to diesel engines to help keep harmful NOx (Nitrogen Oxides) levels in exhaust emissions to a minimum.

All new diesel vehicles must meet strict EU emissions standards and are fitted with SCR (Selective Catalytic Reduction) technology which uses the AdBlue solution.

When storing AdBlue it is vitally important to ensure it does not become contaminated - any foreign particles that get into the solution can have an adverse effect on your diesel engine, causing thousands of pounds worth of damage.

Storing Adblue correctly:

  • Keep AdBlue out of direct sunlight and between the temperatures of -6°C and 25°C.
  • Always keep AdBlue in a sealed container to avoid any contamination.

If you are storing AdBlue in larger quantities there are further precautions that must be taken. Urea can be harmful to surface and groundwater, as well as having corrosive effects on metals such as aluminium alloys, copper, bronze and iron.

To store large quantities of AdBlue safely you should;

  • Always use the right material for your storage tanks. High-density polyethylene, polypropylene or stainless steel tanks are ideal.
  • Make sure there is a secondary containment measure in place to control any spillages.
  • Keep essential clean up equipment close to the AdBlue tank in case of emergency.
  • Regularly check pipes, nozzles and hoses to spot any potential leaks that may occur.
  • Train your staff so they know how to correctly store AdBlue and the appropriate action to take if it is spilled.