In recent months, the transport sector has once again put the focus on AUS32, the 32.5% aqueous urea solution commercially known as AdBlue®. Several recent news stories have warned about breakdowns in SCR systems of European fleets linked to the use of contaminated or out-of-specification products. In a context where vehicle availability is critical and emissions regulations are becoming more and more stringent, guaranteeing the quality of the AUS32 has become a strategic priority for companies and administrations.
In this scenario, Fitosoil Laboratorios, belonging to the Cotecna group, has established itself as one of the few Spanish laboratories that analyzes AUS32 with tests accredited by ENAC under the ISO 17025 standard. This accreditation endorses the technical competence of the laboratory and gives the results legal validity, metrological traceability and international recognition.
Why is the quality of the AUS32 so critical?
AUS32 is an essential reagent for the operation of SCR (Selective Catalytic Reduction) systems, responsible for reducing nitrogen oxides (NOx) emissions in diesel vehicles. For the system to function properly, the product must strictly comply with ISO 22241, which sets very strict limits for contaminants that can damage pumps, injectors and catalytic converters.
Among the most sensitive parameters are:
- Trace metals such as Fe, Cu, Zn or Al, capable of causing corrosion or deactivation of the catalyst.
- Biuret, indicator of urea degradation.
- Aldehydes and insolubles, responsible for clogs and deposits.
- Density and refractive index, keys to verify purity.
- Exact urea concentration, critical to SCR performance.
When any of these parameters deviate, the system can lead to crystallizations, dosing failures, error codes, and even costly breakdowns. Hence the importance of rigorous analytical control.
The role of Fitosoil: accredited analysis and comprehensive service
Fitosoil offers a complete AUS32 quality control service, combining advanced technology, specialized personnel and 17025 accreditation. This makes it possible to:
- Verify compliance with ISO 22241 in all its specifications.
- Detect accidental contamination during transport or storage.
- Identifying adulterated or out-of-standard products, a growing problem in the market.
- Issue legally valid reports, essential for manufacturers, distributors and logistics operators.
But Fitosoil also goes a step further: it performs the sampling service directly in truck fleets and supply depots, ensuring that the sample is representative and that the customer receives a reliable diagnosis of the product they are actually using. This service is especially valuable for companies with high consumption, where point pollution can result in multiple breakdowns and significant operational losses.
AUS32, anticrystallizers and the importance of control
The growing appearance of "anticrystallizing" products on the market has generated doubts among users and companies. It is worth remembering that AUS32 is a regulated product, and any additive not covered by the standard may compromise its conformity. That is why the manufacturers of these additives do not publish their exact composition: they must be formulated in a way that does not alter the critical parameters that laboratories such as Fitosoil analyze and certify.
At a time when low temperatures have caused incidents in SCR systems in several European countries, having an accredited laboratory that verifies the quality of the product and a professional sampling service becomes a clear competitive advantage.
Conclusion
The AUS32 is much more than a consumable: it is a key element to comply with environmental regulations and ensure the operability of vehicles and machinery. In a context where cases of out-of-specification products have increased, accredited analysis and professional sampling become the only real guarantee of quality.
Fitosoil, with its experience, ENAC accreditation and comprehensive service, is positioned as a national benchmark in the control of AUS32, offering its customers safety, reliability and confidence in each analysis.
About Fitosoil
Fitosoil is an ISO 17025-accredited private laboratory specialising in advanced analysis for the agri-food, environmental, industrial, and public health sectors. Our expert team and cutting-edge technology help our clients to comply with regulations, ensure safety, and improve their processes. As part of the Cotecna Group, a world leader in inspection, certification and analysis, we are committed to providing quality and reliable services. At Fitosoil, we provide accurate, customised analytical solutions tailored to each client's specific requirements.