Diesel Exhaust Fluid is a dilute urea solution made with 32.5% urea and 67.5% deionized water. It is used in modern diesel engines to reduce nitrogen oxides that are produced during combustion.
DEF is a clear, colorless solution that should be stored in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight. Diesel Exhaust Fluid will freeze at approximately 12 degrees F. It weighs about 9 pounds per gallon. Heat will shorten the shelf life of DEF.
HDPE is the most economical tank material for Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF), rated Excellent. Polypropylene, nylon and PVDF (Kynar®) are also rated Good or better. Avoid PVC fittings.
How Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) works with the plastics used to make our storage tanks.
| Material | Relative cost | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| HDPE $ | $$$$ | A Excellent |
| Polypropylene $$ | $$$$ | A Excellent |
| Nylon $$$ | $$$$ | A Excellent |
| PVDF (Kynar®) $$$$ | $$$$ | A Excellent |
How Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) works with the plastics used for tank fittings.
| Material | Rating |
|---|---|
| HDPE | A Excellent |
| PVC | D Not Recommended |
| CPVC | A Excellent |
| Polypropylene | A Excellent |
| PVDF | A Excellent |
How Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) works with gasket and O-ring materials.
| Material | Rating |
|---|---|
| Buna-N | B Good |
| EPDM | A Excellent |
| Viton® | A Excellent |
How Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) works with the metals used for fittings and bolts.
| Material | Rating |
|---|---|
| 316 Stainless Steel | B Good |
| Hastelloy | B Good |
| Titanium | A Excellent |
| Aluminum | — No Data |
Storing this chemical in polypropylene?
Polypropylene tanks from 25 to 6,000 gallons with polypropylene fittings installed. Confirm concentration and temperature with us before you order.
Send the chemical, concentration, temperature and size. We’ll match the tank and fittings and send a quote.