IMPACT 4.04.

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Chassis ID Path
A 648791 17/Description, Design and function//AdBlue information. Design & Function

Model Identity
FM 132492215

Publish date ID/Operation

19/11/2013

AdBlue information
Design & Function

General

The increasingly stringent emission standards Euro 4 (2006) and Euro 5 (2009) have led to the development of the
diesel engine, combustion processes and aftertreatment systems. A technology that is used to fulfil the emission
requirements is SCR (Selective Catalytic Reduction). SCR technology means that the exhaust gases undergo
aftertreatment in a catalytic converter in order to reduce emissions of nitrogen oxides. For SCR technology to work
requires that the diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) is dosed into the exhaust gases before they pass through the catalytic
converter. Most of the nitrogen oxide is converted into nitrogen and water in the catalytic converter.

AdBlue is the product name for the diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) used in SCR technology and a trademark owned by
Verband der Automobil Industrie or VDA, the German association of the automotive industry.

Volvo has a VDA license to use the AdBlue trademark.

The denomination AdBlue is used in all markets except the USA, where it is called Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) and in
Brazil, where it is called ARLA 32.

Characteristics

AdBlue is required for most new diesel vehicles in order to reduce emissions of nitrogen oxides (NOx). AdBlue is filled
in a separate tank on the vehicle that is completely separate from the fuel system. AdBlue must absolutely not be
mixed into the diesel.

AdBlue consists of 32.5% urea crystals and 67.5% deionised (distilled) water. It is a transparent, clear fluid with a faint
smell of ammonia. The fluid is not flammable, nor is it harmful during normal handling. However, it is highly corrosive to
metals, in particular copper and aluminium. Read about handling AdBlue solution in the separate section, see:
Selective catalytic reduction (SCR) system / for Euro 6 vehicles see Emissions aftertreatment system (EATS) .

AdBlue is not classified as an environmentally hazardous substance, but should still be handled with all
precautions.
In the event of skin contact – rinse with plenty of water and remove contaminated clothing.
In the event of eye contact - rinse thoroughly for several minutes. Consult a doctor, if necessary.
In the event of inhalation – breathe fresh air and seek medical assistance if necessary.
If swallowed - drink water.

Copyright to this documentation belongs to the Volvo Group. No reproduction, copying, change, amendment or other similar disposal is entitled without prior written consent by
the Volvo Group
The information contained herein is current at the time of its original distribution, but is subject to change. The reader is advised that printed copies are uncontrolled.

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Do not allow AdBlue to come into contact with other chemicals.

AdBlue is not flammable. If AdBlue is exposed to high temperatures then it is broken down into ammonia and
carbon dioxide.
White crystals of concentrated AdBlue can be formed on the vehicle in the event of spillage. Rinse these crystals
off with water.
If spillage enters connectors then they must be replaced, AdBlue is highly corrosive and therefore destroys the
connectors.

Note: AdBlue solution can cause a certain irritation in the event of skin contact.

Facts: AdBlue – ISO 22241-1 (previously

DIN-70070)

Formulation: Urea solution in deionised

(distilled) water.

Urea 32.5% ± 0.8%

concentration:

Characteristics: Colourless fluid. Not flammable.

Not harmful during normal
handling.
Urea in the solution is broken
down slowly into ammonia and
carbon dioxide. It is broken down
more quickly in higher
temperatures.

Physical data: Freezing Point -11 °C / 12.2 F

Density (20 °C / 68 F) 1090 kg/m3

pH ~ 9

Environmental characteristics

AdBlue is not classified as a hazardous substance. However, it is highly alkaline and must be handled with great
caution.

The product contributes to eutrophication in the event of major spillage.

For more information, see: Selective catalytic reduction (SCR) system / for Euro 6 vehicles see Emissions
aftertreatment system (EATS) .

Storing AdBlue

AdBlue solution is stored in a separate tank, which is positioned on the left or right-hand side of the vehicle adjacent to
the diesel tank if possible. For more information, see: Selective catalytic reduction (SCR) system / for Euro 6 vehicles
see Emissions aftertreatment system (EATS) .

ISO 22241-3 Handling, transportation and storage (Draft International Standard (DIS) published 2007-05)

AdBlue is sensitive to extreme temperatures to a certain extent, both heat and cold. The solution freezes at -11°C /
12.2 F. The proportion of urea can be reduced if the temperature exceeds 30°C / 86 F. However, it must be noted that
AdBlue is not destroyed if frozen, once thawed it retains concentration and quality. The solution must not be stored in
Copyright to this documentation belongs to the Volvo Group. No reproduction, copying, change, amendment or other similar disposal is entitled without prior written consent by
the Volvo Group
The information contained herein is current at the time of its original distribution, but is subject to change. The reader is advised that printed copies are uncontrolled.

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direct sunlight.

 
AdBlue product durability at constant temperature.

Specifically about ISO 22241, Quality requirements and use of AdBlue not in accordance with
specification

All suppliers of AdBlue must unconditionally follow ISO 22241.

AdBlue is a high purity chemical solution that is produced to exact specifications and is distributed through a secure
supply chain. It is absolutely forbidden to try to produce your own 32.5% solution of urea and deionised (distilled) water
- purified or not.

Note: If you use a urea solution that does not fulfil ISO specifications then in the short-term it will result in reduced
engine power and in long-term use it can damage the SCR system and catalytic converter. This damage is not covered
under warranty.

AUS32 (AdBlue®) Specifications in accordance

with ISO 22241

  Min Max  

Urea 31.8 33.2 weight %

content

Density at 1.0870 1.0930 g/cm3

20°C / 68 F

Refractive 1.3814 1.3843  

index at
20°C / 68 F

Alkalinity as   0.2 %
Copyright to this documentation belongs to the Volvo Group. No reproduction, copying, change, amendment or other similar disposal is entitled without prior written consent by
the Volvo Group
The information contained herein is current at the time of its original distribution, but is subject to change. The reader is advised that printed copies are uncontrolled.

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NH3

Biuret   0.3 %

Aldehyde   5 mg/kg

Insoluble   20 mg/kg

Phosphate   0.5 mg/kg

(PO4)

Calcium   0.5 mg/kg

Iron   0.5 mg/kg

Copper   0.2 mg/kg

Zinc   0.2 mg/kg

chromium   0.2 mg/kg

Nickel   0.2 mg/kg

Aluminium   0.5 mg/kg

Magnesium   0.5 mg/kg

Sodium   0.5 mg/kg

Potassium   0.5 mg/kg

Only approved by Volvo for use in the exhaust gas aftertreatment system and follows the ISO standard 22241–1
(previously DIN-70070).

Caution
Filling diesel, water, other fluids or AdBlue solution other than AdBlue specified by Volvo (ISO 22241-1) into the
AdBlue tank causes malfunction in the exhaust gas aftertreatment system. Never start the engine if you have
happened to fill anything other than pure AdBlue solution into the AdBlue tank.

What can be done in the workshop

Warning
It is of the utmost importance that the purity of AdBlue is ensured throughout the whole supply chain as well as
that containers intended for the purpose are used during draining / refilling and when it is stored. During
storage it is important that AdBlue is not poured from IBCs or bulk containers into smaller containers because
SCR catalytic converters are sensitive to many types of contaminants - especially mineral ions - and may be
permanently damaged. If damage results from mishandling AdBlue then it is likely that the vehicle's warranty is
invalidated.

Note: Spillage must not be flushed out down the drain. Collect with absorbent. In the event of a major spillage or
accident, call the emergency service centre.
Copyright to this documentation belongs to the Volvo Group. No reproduction, copying, change, amendment or other similar disposal is entitled without prior written consent by
the Volvo Group
The information contained herein is current at the time of its original distribution, but is subject to change. The reader is advised that printed copies are uncontrolled.

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Note: AdBlue must not come into contact with electrical components. This can lead to leakage currents and impaired
contact surface area.

Suitable test in VCADS Pro: 25846-3 SCR system, test

Dosage test 2589–08–03–05 SCR system, test

SCR related fault codes: SCR related Fault Codes

More information about fault codes is available in Guided Diagnostics.

Different tests / checks

Check if there is diesel in the AdBlue solution.

Take a small amount of liquid from the tank in a well-cleaned transparent jar.
Fill another transparent jar with NEW AdBlue solution.
Shake the jar with the liquid from the tank.
Compare the transparency of the liquids with regard to turbidity.
If there is diesel in the liquid then it becomes turbid after shaking in comparison with new AdBlue solution.
As small an amount of diesel as down to 0.1% can be detected.
The SCR system is sensitive to diluted or contaminated aftertreatment diesel exhaust fluid (DEF).

Refractometer, 88890105

Copyright to this documentation belongs to the Volvo Group. No reproduction, copying, change, amendment or other similar disposal is entitled without prior written consent by
the Volvo Group
The information contained herein is current at the time of its original distribution, but is subject to change. The reader is advised that printed copies are uncontrolled.

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Check AdBlue concentration in the liquid.

Remove the insert in the tank's inlet for better visibility and access to the liquid.
Suction up a small amount of liquid with a pipette from the surface of the liquid.
Use a clean hose as extension to the pipette if the level in the tank is low.
Rinse the test equipment thoroughly with distilled water before use.
Apply a drop on the instrument's sight glass.
The level must lie exactly on the line for the correct concentration.
The SCR system is sensitive to diluted or contaminated aftertreatment diesel exhaust fluid (DEF).
If no level is shown in the instrument then it may indicate contamination e.g. pure water or diesel.

Indicating paper, 88890110

Check if there is diesel or oil in the AdBlue solution.

Copyright to this documentation belongs to the Volvo Group. No reproduction, copying, change, amendment or other similar disposal is entitled without prior written consent by
the Volvo Group
The information contained herein is current at the time of its original distribution, but is subject to change. The reader is advised that printed copies are uncontrolled.

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Remove the insert in the tank's inlet for better visibility and access to the liquid.
Attach the indicating paper onto a suitable stick to reach down to the surface.
Dip the indicating paper halfway into the AdBlue solution in the tank.
If there is diesel or oil in the liquid then the submerged part of the paper turns dark blue.
As small an amount of diesel as down to 0.5% can be detected.
Most diesel settles on the surface of the AdBlue solution, but traces of diesel can occur in the whole of the tank.
SCR systems are sensitive to diluted or contaminated aftertreatment diesel exhaust fluid (DEF).

Warning
A complete analysis is very expensive and must be performed in a laboratory.

For more information regarding action in the event of spillage, see: Selective catalytic reduction (SCR) system / for
Euro 6 vehicles see Emissions aftertreatment system (EATS) .

Warning
Ammonia gas can be formed when handling AdBlue. Ensure good ventilation in connection with repairs and
use gloves and safety goggles.
Make sure you breathe in fresh air in the event of inhalation. Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water in the event
of skin or eye contact. Take off contaminated clothes. Gloves must be changed.
Tools that have come into contact with AdBlue must be cleaned. Crystallised AdBlue can also cause irritation in
the event of skin contact.

Caution
AdBlue causes corrosion damage. Spilled AdBlue is very aggressive on electric cables and cable terminals.
Before any component in the system is disassembled, check for the presence of crystallised AdBlue.
Crystallised AdBlue must be washed off with warm water in order to avoid personal injury or damage to
components.

Caution
Do not spill any AdBlue onto dismantled connectors when hoses and components are removed. If this does
happen then the connectors must be replaced immediately. Cleaning with water or compressed air does not
help since AdBlue quickly oxidises metal and the capillary action inches into the line at a speed of approx.
0.6 m/h.

Warning
Copyright to this documentation belongs to the Volvo Group. No reproduction, copying, change, amendment or other similar disposal is entitled without prior written consent by
the Volvo Group
The information contained herein is current at the time of its original distribution, but is subject to change. The reader is advised that printed copies are uncontrolled.

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Risk of slipping! If AdBlue is spilled on the vehicle or the floor, rinse with water and then dry with paper or cloth.

Fire fighting measures

Extinguishing media: Water, carbon dioxide, foam or powder. Dangerous gases may be formed.

Material compatibility

If AdBlue comes into contact with certain materials then this results in chemical reactions. Therefore avoid:

Material that forms compounds as a result of reaction with ammonia

Non-ferrous metals and alloys (copper, copper alloys, zinc, lead)
Solder containing lead, silver, zinc or copper
Aluminium, aluminium alloys
Magnesium, magnesium alloys
Plastic or metal coated with nickel

Copyright to this documentation belongs to the Volvo Group. No reproduction, copying, change, amendment or other similar disposal is entitled without prior written consent by
the Volvo Group
The information contained herein is current at the time of its original distribution, but is subject to change. The reader is advised that printed copies are uncontrolled.

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