Urea

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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.

Description

Urea

Primary Uses

  1. 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.
  1. 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

  1. Animal Feed
  • Added as a non-protein nitrogen source in ruminant feed to enhance microbial protein synthesis in the rumen.
  1. Automotive Industry
  • Used in selective catalytic reduction (SCR) systems as diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) to reduce nitrogen oxide emissions from diesel engines.
  1. Medical and Laboratory Applications
  • Used in diagnostic reagents and as a protein denaturant in laboratories.
  1. Cosmetics and Personal Care
  • Incorporated as a moisturizer and skin-conditioning agent in creams and lotions.
KEY PRODUCT FEATURES

1. Basic Identification Attributes

  • Chemical Name (IUPAC): Carbamide
  • Common/Trade Name: Urea
  • CAS Number: 57-13-6
  • HS Code: 3102.10.00
  • Synonyms: Carbamide, Carbonyl diamide

2. 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

3. 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

4. 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

5. 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

6. 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
SAFETY HANDLING PRECAUTIONS

Safety Handling Precautions

  • 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