Urea
Urea is a highly water-soluble organic compound widely used as a nitrogen-release fertilizer in agriculture. It serves as a key source of nitrogen for plant growth and development. Apart from agriculture, urea is utilized in various industrial applications such as resin production, animal feed, and chemical manufacturing. Its high nitrogen content and easy handling make it a versatile and essential raw material in multiple sectors.
Primary Uses
Agriculture
Nitrogen Fertilizer: Provides a concentrated and readily available nitrogen source to improve crop yields and soil fertility.
Foliar Feeding: Used in foliar sprays for rapid nutrient absorption by plants.
Soil Conditioner: Helps in correcting nitrogen deficiency and improving soil nutrient balance.
Chemical Industry
Resin Production: Raw material for manufacturing urea-formaldehyde and melamine-formaldehyde resins used in adhesives, laminates, and molding compounds.
Admixtures: Used in the synthesis of various chemicals, including fertilizers and pharmaceuticals.
Secondary Uses
Animal Feed
Added as a non-protein nitrogen source in ruminant feed to enhance microbial protein synthesis in the rumen.
Automotive Industry
Used in selective catalytic reduction (SCR) systems as diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) to reduce nitrogen oxide emissions from diesel engines.
Medical and Laboratory Applications
Used in diagnostic reagents and as a protein denaturant in laboratories.
Cosmetics and Personal Care
Incorporated as a moisturizer and skin-conditioning agent in creams and lotions.
Chemical Name (IUPAC): Carbamide
Common/Trade Name: Urea
CAS Number: 57-13-6
HS Code: 3102.10.00
Synonyms: Carbamide, Carbonyl diamide
Physical & Chemical Properties
Physical State: White crystalline solid or prills
Color & Odor: Colorless to white; odorless
Melting Point: 132.7 °C (decomposes)
Solubility: Highly soluble in water; soluble in alcohol and slightly soluble in ether
Density: Approximately 1.32 g/cm³
Safety & Hazard Attributes
GHS Classification: Not classified as hazardous under normal handling
Toxicity: Low toxicity; may cause mild irritation to skin and eyes
Exposure Limits: No specific occupational exposure limits established; standard hygiene practices recommended
Storage & Handling Attributes
Storage Conditions: Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from moisture and incompatible substances
Container Type: Bags, bulk containers, or drums
Shelf Life: Typically 12-24 months when stored properly
Handling Precautions: Avoid moisture absorption and dust formation; use protective equipment to minimize dust inhalation
Regulatory & Compliance Attributes
Complies with major chemical regulatory frameworks such as REACH and TSCA
Manufactured according to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) ensuring consistent quality
Meets international fertilizer standards for agricultural use
Environmental & Health Impact
Biodegradability: Biodegradable and breaks down into ammonia and carbon dioxide
Ecotoxicity: Low toxicity to aquatic life when diluted; excessive nitrogen can cause eutrophication
Bioaccumulation: Not significant
PPE Required: Gloves, dust mask, and eye protection recommended during handling
Handling Guidelines: Use adequate ventilation to prevent dust accumulation
Storage Measures: Keep containers tightly closed and dry
First Aid Measures
Inhalation: Move to fresh air; seek medical attention if respiratory symptoms develop
Skin Contact: Wash thoroughly with soap and water
Eye Contact: Flush eyes with water for at least 15 minutes; seek medical attention if irritation persists
Ingestion: Rinse mouth; drink water; seek medical advice if large quantities are ingested
Firefighting Measures
Fire Hazards: Urea is non-flammable but decomposes at high temperatures releasing toxic gases
Extinguishing Media: Use water spray, foam, or dry chemical extinguishers
Hazardous Combustion Products: Nitrogen oxides, ammonia, and cyanuric acid may be released during decomposition