AdBlue - are we in danger of a crisis?

We have already got used to the galloping fuel prices. RV users traveling across Europe in camper vans or in a trailer caravan can already prepare for the next problem. The urea solution used in modern power units may soon turn out to be surprisingly expensive and, moreover, much more difficult to obtain. The main component of AdBlue is ammonia , the production of which requires a large amount of gas. As we know, this raw material is also becoming more expensive.

Due to the market situation, one of the main suppliers to the European markets - BASF - has significantly reduced production. For many chemical concerns, the production of the additive is a side business, and when it becomes unprofitable, they prefer to withdraw from contracts, paying possible contractual penalties and stop production completely. The first of the large producers made such a decision in Italy, others are already announcing a reduction or end of deliveries.

The situation with AdBlue in Germany

The situation on the German market is monitored, for example, by the industry association Mineralölwirtschaftsverband eV (MWV), which in its official announcements confirms the above state of affairs, while not being able to assess with certainty what kind of development we should expect. For now, it reassures that the continuity of supplies to retail markets should not be threatened.

No industry organizations or consumer appeals will have any influence on price caps in individual countries - they will be influenced by other factors that seem to be beyond the control of anyone.

AdBlue stock recommended?

Is it worth taking care of supplies? Due to the nature of the product, specialists advise against long-term storage at home. However, if, due to frequent departures and high mileage, we would like to have a tactical reserve in case of shortages in supplies, there are a few important rules to remember.

How to store AdBlue?

- Avoid high temperatures in excess of 30 degrees Celsius and direct sunlight.

- The storage temperature should be in the range of 5-20 degrees Celsius.

- Below -11.5 degrees, Adblue freezes, but after defrosting, the agent can be safely used without compromising its quality.

- AdBlue decomposes over time to form ammonia. This process depends on the storage temperature. It is assumed that at a temperature of up to 25 degrees, the shelf life is 18 months, and at a temperature of up to 30 degrees, it will be only 12 months.

- AdBlue should not come into contact with other substances. Even the smallest contaminants can have a degrading effect on its properties or the layout in the vehicle. For this reason, it is strongly discouraged to use containers for other substances for pouring and storing them.

Many vehicles powered by diesel engines meeting the EURO5 emission standard, and the vast majority of those meeting the EURO6 standard, are equipped with systems with the addition of AdBlue. In trucks with EURO V and VI engines, the use of an SCR catalytic converter with urea has been mandatory since 2008.