AdBlue helps us do something for the environment by cutting down our emissions. But can we help the planet further, can you recycle AdBlue containers?
You can recycle AdBlue containers. Make sure they are empty and then put them in a plastic recycling bin.
Recycling plastic is a great way for us to help our earth. But what should you do to recycle AdBlue containers? You find out some more tips coming up next in this article.
Can AdBlue Containers Be Reused?
AdBlue containers are not indestructible, so you may find that you need to replace your AdBlue container from time to time. But what about reusing the container? Is that recommended?
You shouldn’t reuse your AdBlue container. This is because it may have been contaminated and AdBlue is a fluid that needs to remain as pure as possible.
What Do You Do With Waste AdBlue?
Do you have expired AdBlue that you would like to get rid of? Then there are a couple of things to bear in mind when throwing it away.
One of them is that AdBlue can harm the environment if you do not dispose of it correctly.
Pouring large amounts of it down the drain or into the soil can be detrimental to the ecosystem. So how should you dispose of it?
You should take waste AdBlue to an approved waste disposal facility. That way, they will dispose of it in a safe and responsible way.
This means treating the AdBlue so that it breaks down into compounds before it is taken to a landfill.
But how can you tell if your AdBlue is still suitable to use or not? Here are a couple of signs to look out for.
- Check the expiry date
- Do not keep it in storage for more than one year
- The AdBlue has changed in color
- The AdBlue has changed in smell
- It has formed crystals or particles
Can You Store AdBlue Once Opened?
Did you just open a bottle of AdBlue but don’t think that you will be able to use it all at once? Then don’t worry, as you can store AdBlue once you have opened it.
AdBlue that is in storage, however, can degrade pretty quickly if you do not keep it in the right conditions.
What kind of conditions deteriorate the quality of AdBlue? Take a look below at a few of them.
| Incorrect AdBlue Storage Methods | The Effect They Have on the AdBlue |
| The storage temperature is too cold (eg below -11 degrees Celsius) | The AdBlue expands and cracks containers and sealed pipework |
| The storage temperature is too hot (eg above 40 degrees Celsius) | It releases ammonia gas which can be dangerous when inhaled, affecting the eyes, nose, and respiratory tract |
| It is stored for too long (over 12 months, or not in the correct conditions) | It changes color, begins to smell, forms particles or crystals showing contamination |
| You left it in direct sunlight | It is no longer effective and will need to be replaced |
| It is stored in a container that is made wholly or in part of iron, copper, or zinc | It has been contaminated and is no longer effective and will need to be replaced |
We’ve looked at a lot of things that can cause AdBlue to spoil and contaminate faster than it should.
So, what should you do with it to keep it in tip-top condition? Here are some tips that will help.
- Store AdBlue at the right temperature. For it to last as long as possible in storage, you should keep it between -6 and 25 degrees Celsius. You should keep it out of direct sunlight.
- Keep it stored in a well-ventilated area
- You should not store AdBlue for more than 12 months or anything past its use-by date
- Keep the AdBlue in its original container
- Keep the container tightly sealed while you are not using the AdBlue
- Store the container in a dark place
Final Thoughts
AdBlue containers are often used by motorists. But what should you do with the container once it is empty? Can you recycle AdBlue containers?
This article has shown us that you can recycle AdBlue containers by putting them in a plastic recycling bin.
If there is still AdBlue in the containers, you should take them to an approved, AdBlue waste facility.
That way, they will be disposed of in a way that is best for the environment.
