Urea

Urea, also known as carbamide, is a colorless, odorless, and highly water-soluble organic compound with the chemical formula CO(NH₂)₂. It is the most common nitrogen fertilizer used worldwide and plays a key role in agriculture and industry.

Key Properties of Urea

  • Molecular Formula: CO(NH₂)₂

  • Molar Mass: 60.06 g/mol

  • Appearance: White crystalline solid

  • Nitrogen Content: ~46% (highest among solid nitrogen fertilizers)

  • Solubility: Highly soluble in water

  • Melting Point: ~133°C

Production of Urea

Urea is synthesized through the reaction of ammonia (NH₃) and carbon dioxide (CO₂) under high pressure and temperature, typically as part of the Haber-Bosch process:

2NH3+CO2→(NH2)2CO+H2O2 NH₃ + CO₂ → (NH₂)₂CO + H₂O

Types of Urea (by Use or Form)

1. Agricultural Urea (Fertilizer Grade)

  • Most widely used nitrogen fertilizer globally

  • Typically granulated or prilled for ease of handling and application

  • Enhances crop yield by providing essential nitrogen for plant growth

  • Often used with urease inhibitors or coated (slow-release) forms to reduce nitrogen loss

2. Industrial Urea

Used in a variety of industrial applications, including:

  • Resins and adhesives (e.g., urea-formaldehyde resins)

  • Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) (also known as AdBlue): helps reduce NOx emissions from diesel engines

  • Plastic and rubber manufacturing

  • Textiles and dyeing

3. Feed-Grade Urea

  • Added to animal feed (especially for ruminants like cows) as a non-protein nitrogen source

  • Requires careful dosing to avoid toxicity

Advantages of Urea

  • High nitrogen content (46%)

  • Cost-effective and easy to store

  • Quickly dissolves in water

  • Compatible with many other fertilizers

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