DEF Urea

An Introduction to DEF Urea:

DEF Urea Diesel Exhaust Fluid Diesel exhaust fluids (also known as DEF fluid, DEF urea, and more) are relatively new, but it has already made a big impact on the automobile service industry. DEF is a fundamental ingredient in Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) which is one of the most effective systems used to reduce exhaust pollution in diesel engines in your car, trucks, buses, power generation systems and of course the marine industry. With environmental regulations becoming more stringent around the world, the reasons for using DEF to help meet emissions requirements, minimize your environmental footprint, and keep your diesel engine running reliably are stronger than ever. Now we are going to know more about DEF Urea in this article.

• What is DEF Urea?
• Why is DEF Critical for Diesel Emission Control?
• How DEF Works with SCR (Selective Catalytic Reduction) Technology

What is DEF Urea?

DEF Urea is a solution of 32.5% high-purity urea mixed with 67.5% deionized water. In contrast to industrial or agricultural urea, DEF-grade urea is rigorously purified to eliminate impurities like biuret, aldehydes, and heavy metals that would damage engine parts or decrease catalyst efficiency.

This liquid is colorless, odorless, and non-toxic, but it requires careful handling and storage to prevent compromising its quality. DEF Urea is not a fuel additive but is injected into the exhaust system and is, therefore, a critical post-combustion emissions control technology. It is used across the world under various brand names, like AdBlue, particularly in Europe.

Why is DEF Critical for Diesel Emission Control?

Modern diesel engines are powerful and efficient — but they naturally produce nitrogen oxides (NOx), harmful pollutants that contribute to smog, acid rain, and respiratory diseases. Regulatory bodies across the world, including the EU (Euro V and VI), the U.S. EPA (Tier 4), and similar frameworks in Asia and the Middle East, mandate significant reductions in NOx emissions.

DEF plays a vital role in meeting these standards. When injected into the exhaust stream, DEF initiates a chemical reaction that converts up to 90% of NOx emissions into harmless nitrogen and water vapor. Without DEF, vehicles and equipment would fail to meet compliance and face heavy penalties or usage restrictions in many countries.

How DEF Works with SCR (Selective Catalytic Reduction) Technology?

Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) is an advanced emissions control technology that uses DEF Urea as its reactive agent. Here’s how it works:

1. DEF is stored in a dedicated tank onboard the vehicle or machinery.
2. As exhaust gases leave the combustion chamber, DEF is injected into the exhaust stream, just before the SCR catalyst.
3. The high temperature causes the DEF to decompose into ammonia (NH₃) and carbon dioxide.
4. The ammonia reacts with NOx gases in the SCR catalyst, transforming them into harmless nitrogen (N₂) and water (H₂O).

This process not only drastically cuts NOx emissions but also improves fuel economy in diesel engines by allowing manufacturers to tune engines for performance and then clean emissions post-combustion. The SCR + DEF system is the gold standard for clean diesel compliance worldwide.

Iran’s Strategic Role in DEF Urea Supply

Iran is one of the globe's leading producers of urea due to its extensive natural gas reserves, extensive petrochemical industry, and direct route to the international shipping lanes. Such advantages render Iran a strategic and cost-effective source of DEF Urea for the global market. In this chapter, we examine why Iran's geography, infrastructure, and export expertise render it an ideal partner in sourcing DEF Urea.

• Overview of Iran’s Petrochemical Capabilities
• Countries We Export DEF Urea To
• Sanction Navigation & Legal Export Channels

Overview of Iran’s Petrochemical Capabilities

Iran ranks among the top global producers of urea, with massive production capacity centralized in industrial hubs like Assaluyeh and Mahshahr. Leveraging its access to low-cost natural gas feedstock — a key input for urea synthesis — Iran operates several large-scale ammonia-urea plants that produce both agricultural and DEF-grade urea.

Many of these plants are equipped with modern purification systems that meet international standards for high-purity urea, necessary for DEF applications. The country’s ability to maintain consistent year-round production ensures a reliable and scalable supply of DEF for international buyers.

Countries We Export DEF Urea To

At Iran Petro Export, our global footprint spans across Asia, Africa, and Europe, making us a trusted partner for a wide variety of industries — from agriculture and infrastructure to transportation and energy.

We proudly serve clients in:

• Southeast Asia, including construction and energy companies,
• Africa, particularly fertilizer distributors and agricultural cooperatives,
• Europe, supplying energy providers and industrial buyers.

Thanks to our deep local expertise in Iran’s energy sector and global trade knowledge, we bridge the gap between Iranian production capabilities and international demand. Whether through direct shipments, distributor partnerships, or coordinated logistics support, our goal is to deliver high-purity DEF Urea quickly, reliably, and in full compliance with each region’s regulations.

From regulatory paperwork to port logistics, we manage the entire process — ensuring that your DEF Urea supply arrives on time and meets the stringent environmental standards required for diesel emission control.

Sanction Navigation & Legal Export Channels

Operating from Iran, Iran Petro Export is fully aware of the complexities involved in international trade under sanctions. However, it's important to note that many petrochemical products, including high-purity DEF Urea, are not restricted under current international frameworks, provided all documentation and regulations are properly followed.

We take a compliance-first approach to every transaction. Our team manages:

• Accurate and complete customs documentation,
• Close coordination with Iran’s Ministry of Petroleum and customs authorities,
• Engagement with certified international freight partners for secure and transparent shipments,
• Use of legally acceptable financial channels and trade structures suited to the buyer’s jurisdiction.

By navigating the regulatory landscape with precision and professionalism, we ensure that our partners — whether in Europe, Asia, or Africa — receive their shipments safely, legally, and without unnecessary delays. Our track record of transparent, documented trade helps build long-term trust with clients worldwide.

Technical Specifications & Chemical Profile

Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) must meet exacting chemical standards to function effectively in SCR-equipped diesel engines and comply with environmental regulations. As an experienced exporter of high-purity DEF Urea, Iran Petro Export adheres to global benchmarks, ensuring every shipment aligns with ISO 22241 standards. This section outlines the precise chemical composition, purity requirements, and quality certifications that define our DEF Urea product line.

• Urea Purity (Minimum 32.5%) and Water Quality
• ISO 22241 Compliance and Certifications
• Test Report Sample & QA/QC Procedures
• Differences Between DEF, Technical, and Agricultural Urea

Urea Purity (Minimum 32.5%) and Water Quality

DEF Urea consists of 32.5% high-purity urea and 67.5% deionized water, a formulation optimized for performance and safety in SCR systems. Our urea content is strictly controlled to meet this exact concentration, which ensures the fluid remains effective across a wide temperature range and minimizes crystallization risk.

We use deionized water with conductivity < 0.5 μS/cm, free from contaminants like calcium, iron, chlorides, and other minerals that could damage emission control components. This guarantees long-term stability and full catalyst compatibility in both mobile and stationary diesel systems.

ISO 22241 Compliance and Certifications

Our DEF Urea is fully compliant with ISO 22241-1 through ISO 22241-4, the international standards governing urea quality, handling, packaging, and testing procedures. These certifications cover:

• Chemical composition & concentration tolerance
• Biuret, aldehyde, and heavy metal limits
• Packaging material compatibility
• Product stability under various transport and storage conditions

All batches are accompanied by a Certificate of Analysis (COA), and can be third-party inspected upon request. This guarantees transparency and trust — especially for buyers operating in regulated markets like Europe, India, and the Gulf region.

Test Report Sample & QA/QC Procedures

Every DEF Urea shipment is subjected to pre-loading laboratory testing, performed either in-house or through certified third-party laboratories. We evaluate:

• Urea concentration
• Biuret content
• Alkalinity (as NH₃)
• Aldehyde content
• Insolubles
• Phosphate and metal traces

Only after full quality clearance and documentation is the product released for export. Upon request, clients receive a lab test report (PDF) alongside SDS (Safety Data Sheet), COA, and export documentation.

Differences Between DEF, Technical, and Agricultural Urea

Not all urea is suitable for SCR systems. Here’s how DEF-grade urea differs:

Using non-DEF urea in SCR systems can clog injectors, damage catalysts, and void warranties. Iran Petro Export guarantees DEF-specific formulation and purity to avoid these risks.

Use Cases & Industry Applications

DEF Urea is a vital consumable across multiple industries that rely on diesel-powered engines. Its primary function is to support Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) systems in reducing NOx emissions, helping operators meet strict environmental regulations without compromising engine performance. From transportation fleets and construction firms to marine shipping and agriculture, DEF is now an operational necessity in compliant diesel systems. This section explores how different sectors depend on high-purity DEF Urea supplied by Iran Petro Export.

• Automotive and Fleet Management
• Heavy-Duty Trucks, Buses, and Construction Equipment
• Maritime Shipping and Marine Engines
• Stationary Diesel Generators and Power Plants
• Off-Road and Agricultural Equipment
•  

Automotive and Fleet Management

Modern commercial vehicles — including trucks, buses, and delivery vans — are required by law in many countries to use SCR technology. Fleet operators rely on DEF Urea to meet emission targets and maintain compliance with Euro 5, Euro 6, and U.S. EPA Tier 4 regulations.

Our DEF ensures optimal engine performance while reducing NOx emissions by over 85%. Bulk supply contracts, flexible packaging options, and guaranteed ISO compliance make Iran Petro Export a trusted partner for fleet managers and logistics companies worldwide.

Heavy-Duty Trucks, Buses, and Construction Equipment

Heavy-duty equipment such as excavators, bulldozers, road pavers, and long-haul trucks all require a stable, high-purity DEF source to keep SCR systems functioning. These engines operate under high thermal loads and long duty cycles, meaning DEF quality has a direct impact on uptime and emissions output.

We provide bulk and IBC-packaged DEF Urea tailored to the needs of:

• Construction firms
• Mining operations
• Public transportation agencies

With professional-grade supply chain management and end-to-end documentation, we help equipment operators avoid fines, reduce maintenance, and improve fuel economy.

Maritime Shipping and Marine Engines

As the IMO 2020 regulations demand reduced sulfur and NOx emissions from maritime vessels, DEF Urea is increasingly used in marine diesel engines, particularly in coastal and inland shipping.

• Iran Petro Export supports this transition by offering:
•  
• DEF packaged in ISO tanks for large-scale maritime operations
• Flexitanks and IBCs for port-to-ship delivery
• Custom documentation for cross-border marine regulations

Our marine-grade DEF enables port compliance and environmental reporting accuracy for cargo ships, ferries, and offshore platforms.

Stationary Diesel Generators and Power Plants

Industries using stationary diesel engines for backup power or peak shaving—like hospitals, data centers, and utility plants—must also comply with emissions regulations in many jurisdictions.

Our DEF Urea helps:

• Reduce NOx output from diesel gensets
• Maintain permit compliance for urban and industrial zones
• Extend equipment life by protecting the SCR system

We offer scheduled deliveries and storage consultation for clients using high-capacity gensets.

Off-Road and Agricultural Equipment

Farmers and agribusinesses operating tractors, harvesters, and irrigation pumps increasingly require DEF to comply with Tier 4 and Stage V engine standards. These systems operate in dusty, rugged environments where DEF purity is essential to avoid SCR fouling.

Iran Petro Export supplies:

• DEF Urea in sealed drums and IBCs for on-farm use
• Delivery scheduling aligned with planting and harvest cycles
• Long shelf-life assurance through climate-controlled packaging

DEF Urea Packaging & Shipping Options

At Iran Petro Export, we understand that safe and efficient delivery of DEF Urea is as important as its chemical purity. Whether you need small-volume shipments or high-capacity bulk exports, we offer a variety of packaging solutions and shipping methods designed to protect product integrity and meet global logistics requirements. From IBC tanks to ISO containers, we handle everything from port coordination to export documentation, ensuring your order arrives on time and in perfect condition.

• Packaging Types: IBC Tanks, Drums, Flexitanks, Bulk Tankers
• Loading Ports in Iran (e.g., Bandar Abbas, Imam Khomeini Port)
• Delivery Modes: Road, Sea, and Rail
• Typical Lead Times and Export Capacity

Packaging Types: IBC Tanks, Drums, Flexitanks, Bulk Tankers

We offer DEF Urea in a wide range of internationally approved packaging formats, including:

• IBC Tanks (Intermediate Bulk Containers) – 1,000-liter units ideal for distributors, fuel stations, and industrial sites
• HDPE Drums – 200-liter sealed drums for remote or controlled dispensing needs
• Flexitanks – Economical solution for 24,000–26,000 liters per container, ideal for long-haul transport
• ISO Tank Containers – Stainless steel tanks offering 24,000-liter capacity for large-scale marine or intermodal shipping
• Bulk Tanker Loading – Direct loading for regional clients using road tankers or rail cars

All packaging materials are DEF-compatible and ISO 22241-certified to avoid contamination or degradation.

Loading Ports in Iran (e.g., Bandar Abbas, Imam Khomeini Port)

We ship DEF Urea from Iran’s most efficient and internationally connected seaports, including:

• Bandar Abbas – Southern Iran’s largest deep-sea port with global container and bulk shipping access
• Imam Khomeini Port (IKP) – Strategically located near petrochemical production zones
• Mahshahr Port – Optimized for petrochemical exports near the urea-producing hubs

We coordinate with port customs, terminal operators, and freight forwarders to ensure seamless loading, compliance checks, and export clearance.

Delivery Modes: Road, Sea, and Rail

We accommodate a variety of delivery modes depending on the destination, volume, and client preferences:

• Sea Freight – FCL and LCL shipments available to Asia, Africa, Europe, and South America
• Road Transport – For buyers in neighboring countries such as Iraq, Armenia, and Turkey
• Rail Freight – Where applicable, especially for high-volume shipments across CIS regions

Every shipment is supported with:

• Tracking numbers
• Insurance options
• Real-time shipment updates upon request

Typical Lead Times and Export Capacity

We offer flexible lead times based on order volume and packaging type:

• IBC or drum orders: 7–10 business days
• Flexitank and ISO tank loads: 10–15 business days
• Bulk orders: Based on production scheduling and loading availability

Thanks to our close coordination with Iran’s refineries and production hubs, we can fulfill large export orders consistently and on schedule, making us a reliable supplier for recurring or contract-based DEF deliveries.

Regulatory Compliance & Documentation

When sourcing DEF Urea internationally, regulatory compliance is non-negotiable. Iran Petro Export ensures every shipment meets both domestic export requirements and destination country import standards, minimizing delays and building buyer confidence. From technical certifications to environmental safety paperwork, we provide a fully transparent documentation package with each order — a critical advantage in regulated markets like the EU, GCC, and South Asia.

• REACH Compliance for Europe
• SDS (Safety Data Sheet) and COA (Certificate of Analysis)
• Export Documentation and Country-Specific Requirements

REACH Compliance for Europe

For customers in the European Union, we supply DEF Urea that is eligible for REACH-compliant registration, adhering to environmental and human health standards for chemical imports. Our urea products meet the criteria set forth by the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) and are eligible for registration by importers or authorized representatives under REACH guidelines.

We support European partners by:

• Providing detailed product composition data
• Supplying Safety Data Sheets (SDS) in accordance with REACH formats
• Supporting third-party pre-registration or full registration processes where required

SDS (Safety Data Sheet) and COA (Certificate of Analysis)

Each DEF Urea shipment from Iran Petro Export is accompanied by:

• A Safety Data Sheet (SDS) outlining chemical safety, handling, storage, and emergency procedures
• A Certificate of Analysis (COA) confirming key product specifications, including:
• Urea concentration (32.5%)
• Biuret content
• pH and alkalinity
• Heavy metals, aldehydes, and insolubles
• Water conductivity and purity levels

These documents are prepared in compliance with ISO 22241 standards and are available in English or bilingual formats upon request.

Export Documentation and Country-Specific Requirements

To ensure smooth customs clearance at destination ports, we provide a full set of export documents with every shipment. This typically includes:

• Commercial Invoice
• Packing List
• Bill of Lading (B/L)
• Certificate of Origin (Chamber of Commerce-issued)
• Inspection Certificates (e.g., SGS, BV) – optional, upon request
• Customs Export Declaration (IED/EX1)

We also support destination-specific documentation, such as:

• HALAL certification (for Muslim-majority countries)
• Registration with national chemical control authorities
• Import license support where needed

Our logistics and documentation team ensures that your shipment meets regulatory, safety, and technical standards from Iran to your port of entry, streamlining the import process.

Why Choose Us as Your DEF Urea Supplier?

Choosing the right DEF Urea supplier is not just about price — it’s about trust, quality, reliability, and service. At Iran Petro Export, we combine deep industry knowledge with international trade expertise to deliver unmatched value to our clients worldwide. As a Tehran-based private company focused exclusively on petroleum and petrochemical exports, we offer the ideal blend of local insight and global operational standards.

• Quality Guarantee & Lab Testing
• Competitive Export Pricing
• On-Time Delivery Track Record
• Customized Logistics Solutions
• Client-Centered, Transparent Communication

Quality Guarantee & Lab Testing

All our DEF Urea is sourced from Iran’s leading refineries, known for advanced production capabilities and strict quality control. Every shipment undergoes comprehensive lab testing, and we provide full documentation including:

• Certificate of Analysis (COA)
• Safety Data Sheet (SDS)
• Third-party inspection reports upon request

We do not compromise on purity — all DEF meets or exceeds ISO 22241 specifications.

Competitive Export Pricing

Thanks to Iran’s abundant natural gas reserves and low-cost production base, we offer DEF Urea at highly competitive prices — without compromising on quality. Our lean operational model and direct-from-source procurement ensure buyers benefit from:

• Lower cost per liter
• High-volume discounts
• Flexible Incoterms (FOB, CIF, CFR, EXW)

On-Time Delivery Track Record

Timely delivery is a cornerstone of our service. We manage end-to-end logistics, including:

• Coordination with Iranian customs and Ministry of Petroleum
• Certified freight and port partners (e.g., Bandar Abbas, IKP)
• Real-time shipment updates
• Accurate export documentation

Whether it's drums, IBCs, or ISO tanks, we ensure your DEF arrives on schedule and in perfect condition.

Customized Logistics Solutions

We adapt to your needs — from order size and packaging to shipping methods and destinations. Whether you're a fertilizer distributor in Africa, a fleet operator in Asia, or a fuel importer in Europe, our logistics team provides:

• Route planning
• Compliance checks
• Port coordination
• Last-mile delivery options where possible

Client-Centered, Transparent Communication

Our team is built around integrity, expertise, and commitment. From the moment you request a quote to post-shipment follow-up, you’ll experience:

• Responsive communication
• Honest timelines
• Clear documentation
• A long-term relationship focus

We work not just to fulfill a sale — but to earn your ongoing trust.