Indeed, diesel has helped millions of people and businesses thrive. However, with its increased use, it also brought harm and damaged the environment. With that said, attempts to reduce pollutant emissions are made, and one of the most successful attempts is SCR or Selective Catalytic Reduction. SCR was used in Japan in the late 1970s through thermal powerplants, which significantly reduced nitrogen oxides emissions. It was later widely used in Europe.
Fast forward to 2010; engine manufacturers introduced SCR systems alongside DEF or Diesel Exhaust Fluid that also helps in reducing harmful elements that are released into the atmosphere. DEF’s components come from deionized water and urea (found in mammal urines.)
But several myths and facts are said about DEF, and here are points to debunk it.
DEF is Toxic
The primary purpose of DEF is to reduce pollution and not add to it. Remember that it is non-toxic, non-hazardous, non-flammable, and has a natural pH of 9.0, about the same as a baking soda found in home pantries.
DEF is Urine
DEF contains urea but is not urine. As mentioned earlier, urea is a significant component of urine. Also, since the 1930s production of synthetic urea has been happening—a combination of synthetic ammonia and carbon dioxide through a heated and sealed process.
It is Hard to Use
No. It is a simple as putting water on a car’s radiator. Plus, there is no need to refill a DEF tank every time you fill your gas tank because a 2.5 gallon can already serve for about 800 miles of travel.
DEF is Unstable
Despite temperature changes, DEF does not transform into a toxic chemical and is easy to store.
You Can’t Easily Buy DEF
As long as gasoline stations sell diesel, DEF is available. It can also be purchased online, and of course, if we talk about the price, it could range from $2.50 to $8.00 per gallon.
Only Professionals Can Fill Your Tank
There is no need to visit a car shop or gasoline station to fill up your tank. DEF tanks are easy to access, and you can do it by yourself, even in a garage.
No Factory DEF Will Damage My Car
DEF may have different brand names, but they function all the same. They aren’t toxic, meaning using the fluid will not harm nor damage any part of your car.
DEF Evaporates
You can now stop worrying about DEF evaporation because it only happens when constantly exposed at 120 degrees for two years.
DEF is a New Invention
SCR and DEF have already been around for several years and are used in agricultural and commercial applications. So, this is nothing new.
DEF has More Cons than Pros
DEF may have the only cons: you will need to increase your operating cost, have more room for your truck, and add a little weight. On the other hand, there are so many pros that it could bring, such as fuel efficiency and power increase for your truck.
Learn more about diesel exhaust fuel through this infographic by Pure Diesel Power, the superior in diesel parts and performance.
Read More: Is Your Diesel Engine Truck Ready for Summer?
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