Diesel plays a vital role in today’s modern world, especially in the transport industry—sea, air, rail, land transports—and even powerplants, farms, and construction. We depend on diesel for many things, and it is all thanks to Rudolf Diesel, a German inventor who prototyped diesel in 1893 by using peanut oil.
But in our modern times, the good things the diesel brought us also brought harm to the environment. It is why Selective Catalytic Reduction and Diesel Exhaust Fluid were created. These systems help in reducing harmful emissions—nitrogen dioxide and monoxide—in the atmosphere. Here are some myths surrounding the use of DEF and facts that counter it.
1. DEF is Toxic
Being fluid, DEF has a natural pH of 9.0, which makes it as safe as baking soda in your home. As its purpose is to help slow down pollution brought by harmful chemicals, DEF is non-toxic.
2. DEF is Urine
Urea is a waste product of mammals and other living organisms, and it is a significant component of human urine, but DEF is not urine. DEF uses a combination of 33.5% urea and 76.5% deionized water.
3. It is Hard to Use
Filling up a DEF tank is as easy as filling up your car’s radiator with water. Filling up a 2.5-gallon DEF tank is already good for 800 miles of travel.
4. DEF is Unstable
There is no need to worry about DEF in terms of temperature changes. Regardless of freezing or humid temperatures, the fluid does not transform into a toxic chemical.
5. You Can’t Easily Buy DEF
Car owners can purchase DEF from any truck stops or gasoline stations. And as long as diesel fuel is on sale, DEF will also be. Check the internet, and you can also order online.
6. Only Professionals Can Fill Your Tank
Because DEF is not tricky to use, refilling the tank can happen even in your garage. There is no need to ask a professional to do it for you.
7. No Factory DEF Will Damage My Car
There may be several brands of DEF in the market, but they all have the same components and function the same. As it is non-toxic, non-flammable, and non-hazardous, it will do your car no harm.
8. DEF Evaporates
DEF does evaporate not unless it is constantly exposed at 120 degrees for two years. So, worrying about it evaporating is a waste of time thinking.
9. DEF is a New Invention
The SCR and DEF that help reduce harmful emissions from cars have been around for a long time, especially in agricultural and commercial applications. So, claiming it to be a new invention is false.
10. DEF has More Cons than Pros
The only con that you might encounter in using DEF is an increase in operation cost. All the other things about it will be for your advantage and your truck and the environment’s good health.
Bust more myths about diesel exhaust through this infographic by Pure Diesel Power, the leader in diesel parts and performance.
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