What is ISO 22241?
ISO 22241-1:2019 is the first part of the ISO 22241 series, which specifies the quality requirements for the NOx reduction agent AUS 32 (commonly known by the trade name AdBlue® in Europe or DEF – Diesel Exhaust Fluid in North America). AUS 32 is an aqueous solution of 32.5% high-purity urea and 67.5% deionized water, used in Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) systems to reduce nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions from diesel engines.
ISO 22241-1 is essential for ensuring that AUS 32 maintains chemical purity and compatibility with vehicle exhaust after-treatment systems. It forms the foundation for regulatory compliance, particularly with Euro VI, US EPA, and other global emission standards.
Need to ensure your AUS 32 production or use complies? Contact support@pacificcert.com!
Scope and Applicability
ISO 22241-1:2019 applies to:
- Manufacturers of AUS 32 (AdBlue/DEF)
- Suppliers and distributors of diesel exhaust fluid
- SCR system developers and diesel engine OEMs
- Transport, storage, and filling station providers
- Vehicle service centers and fleet operators
The standard covers chemical and physical quality characteristics of AUS 32 and is relevant throughout the supply chain to protect SCR systems from contamination and ensure emissions compliance.
What is the purpose of ISO 22241 series?
The primary goal of the ISO 22241 series is to ensure the safe, effective, and durable use of AUS 32 in reducing NOx emissions from diesel engines. It also ensures compatibility with SCR systems, preventing failures due to impurities or degradation.
The ISO 22241 series includes the following parts:
Part | Title |
Part 1 | Quality requirements for AUS 32 |
Part 2 | Test methods for verifying AUS 32 composition |
Part 3 | Handling, transportation, and storage guidelines |
Part 4 | Refilling interface (filling system) for light vehicles |
Part 5 | Refilling interface for heavy-duty vehicles |
Part 6 | Specifications for quality assurance in production and supply |
Quality Requirements for AUS 32
Chemical Composition (as per ISO 22241)
Component | Requirement |
Urea content | 31.8–33.2% by mass |
Biuret | ≤ 0.3% by mass |
Aldehydes | ≤ 5 mg/kg |
Insolubles | ≤ 20 mg/kg |
Phosphate | ≤ 0.5 mg/kg |
Calcium, Iron, Copper, Zinc | Each ≤ 0.5 mg/kg |
Sodium, Potassium, Magnesium | Each ≤ 0.5 mg/kg |
Physical Properties
Property | Specification |
Appearance | Colorless, clear liquid |
Density at 20°C | 1.087 – 1.093 g/cm³ |
Refractive index @ 20°C | 1.3814 – 1.3843 |
Alkalinity as NH₃ | ≤ 0.2% by mass |
Freezing point | Approx. -11°C |
All parameters must be measured using methods specified in ISO 22241-2, ensuring consistency and reproducibility.
Ensuring your DEF or AdBlue® meets these specifications? Contact support@pacificcert.com!
Key Requirements from Other Parts of ISO 22241
ISO 22241-2 – Test Methods
Specifies standardized laboratory test methods to verify compliance with Part 1. Methods include:
- Titration for urea content
- ICP-OES for metals
- Gravimetric methods for insolubles
- UV spectroscopy for aldehydes
ISO 22241-3 – Handling and Storage
Highlights critical precautions such as:
Use of stainless steel or specific plastics (HDPE) for tanks and pipes
Avoiding contact with non-compatible materials (e.g., copper, brass)
Storing between -11°C and 30°C to prevent freezing and decomposition
Protecting from direct sunlight and contamination
ISO 22241-4 & 22241-5 – Refilling Interface
Specifies standardized nozzle and tank interface dimensions to prevent misfilling and ensure ease of use for:
Light-duty vehicles (passenger cars)
Heavy-duty commercial vehicles (trucks and buses)
ISO 22241-6 – Quality Assurance Guidelines
Covers quality management in AUS 32 production and supply chain, including:
Batch control
Lab testing protocols
Tank cleaning procedures
Packaging integrity
Want to align with all ISO 22241 parts? Reach out to support@pacificcert.com.
How to Implement ISO 22241?
- Urea must meet automotive-grade specifications with minimal biuret and heavy metals.
- Implement batch testing using ISO methods. Maintain detailed logs and certificates of analysis (COAs).
- Use ISO 22241-3 guidelines for materials compatibility, temperature controls, and contamination prevention.
- Ensure packaging is marked with:
- “AUS 32” or equivalent trademark
- Production date and batch number
- Storage temperature instructions
- Educate personnel and logistics providers on ISO 22241 requirements, especially for temperature-sensitive transport.
Need support? Contact us at support@pacificcert.com!
Documentation Required
To demonstrate compliance, maintain:
- Test results for each production batch
- Supplier certificates for urea and water
- Storage and transportation records
- Equipment calibration and tank cleaning logs
- Customer complaint handling and traceability records
What are the benefits of ISO 22241?
- Protects vehicle engines from damage caused by contaminated or incorrect DEF.
- Ensures compliance with emissions regulations (Euro VI, US EPA Tier 4).
- Trusted certification ensures product quality from manufacturing to delivery.
- Retailers and fleet operators prefer certified AUS 32 products to minimize warranty and emissions failures.
- Contaminated DEF can clog injectors, damage SCR catalysts, and trigger costly repairs.
- It’s compliance is often required for AUS 32 to be sold in international markets.
The global push for decarbonization and air quality improvement is accelerating adoption of clean diesel technologies. ISO 22241-compliant AUS 32 is central to these efforts:
- The global DEF market is projected to reach USD 55 billion by 2028, growing at over 7% CAGR
- As of 2025, over 90% of commercial diesel vehicles in Europe and North America rely on SCR systems requiring AUS 32
- Emerging economies (e.g., India, Brazil) are implementing Bharat Stage VI and Proconve P8 regulations, which also adopt ISO 22241-based frameworks
Maintaining ISO 22241-1 compliance is now a regulatory necessity. Need help preparing for new regulations or market expansion? Contact support@pacificcert.com!
How Pacific Certifications Can Help?
We provide full support for ISO series compliance, including:
- Testing coordination through accredited laboratories
- Process audits and supply chain assessments
- Quality documentation preparation
- Training for production, transport, and retail teams
- Support for private label DEF brand certification
- Integration with ISO 9001, ISO 14001, and ISO 45001 systems
From urea manufacturers to truck fleet suppliers, we ensure ISO compliance from production to pump. Get certified and protect your product integrity—email support@pacificcert.com!
FAQ on ISO 22241
Is ISO 22241 certification mandatory?
Not legally mandatory, but often required by OEMs and regulators for SCR compatibility and market acceptance.
What is AUS 32?
Aqueous Urea Solution 32.5%, commonly branded as AdBlue or Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF), used in SCR systems.
How do I test if my DEF meets ISO 22241?
Through laboratory testing as per ISO 22241-2 using titration, spectroscopy, and ICP methods.
How is ISO 22241 different from ISO 22240?
ISO 22241 covers quality and usage; ISO 22240 is withdrawn and replaced by ISO 22241 series parts.
Can I use fertilizer-grade urea?
No. Only automotive-grade urea that meets strict purity standards is permitted under ISO 22241.
Ready to get ISO 22241 certified?
Contact Pacific Certifications to begin your certification journey today!
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