Do you have questions? Let's talk! Get in Contact
info@betakim.com.tr

Urea, Carbamide, Carbonyldiamide, Ureum, Carbonyl Diamine, 57-13-6

Urea, Carbamide, Carbonyldiamide, Ureum, Carbonyl Diamine, 57-13-6

UREA (CARBAMIDE)

PRODUCT IDENTIFICATION INFORMATION

Parameter Information
Product Name Urea
Chemical Name Urea (Carbamide)
Synonyms (Turkish) Üre, Karbamit, Karbamid, Üreum
Synonyms (English) Urea, Carbamide, Carbonyldiamide, Ureum, Carbonyl Diamine
CAS Number 57-13-6
EC Number 200-315-5
Molecular Formula CO(NH₂)₂ (CH₄N₂O)
Molecular Weight 60.06 g/mol
Appearance White crystalline solid, granules or prills
Odor Odorless (may have slight ammonia odor upon decomposition)
Taste Cooling, bitter taste

CHEMICAL STRUCTURE

Urea Structure:

        O
        ||
    H₂N—C—NH₂

Structure Description:

  • Organic compound (amide) containing a carbonyl group (C=O) bonded to two amine groups (-NH₂).

  • White, crystalline solid, odorless.

  • Highly soluble in water.

  • Neutral pH in aqueous solution (neither acidic nor alkaline).

  • Contains ~46% nitrogen (the highest nitrogen content among common solid fertilizers).

  • Natural metabolite in mammals (end product of protein metabolism; excreted in urine).

SECTION 1: CHEMICAL IDENTITY AND DESCRIPTION

Parameter Information
Product Name Urea
Chemical Name Urea (Carbamide)
Synonyms (Turkish) Üre, Karbamit, Karbamid, Üreum
Synonyms (English) Urea, Carbamide, Carbonyldiamide, Ureum, Carbonyl Diamine
CAS Number 57-13-6
EC Number 200-315-5
Molecular Formula CO(NH₂)₂ (CH₄N₂O)
Molecular Weight 60.06 g/mol
Chemical Class Organic amide; Nitrogen compound; Fertilizer
Source Synthetic (industrial synthesis from ammonia and CO₂)
Physical State (20°C) Solid (crystalline, granules or prills)
Odor Odorless (may have slight ammonia odor upon decomposition)
Color White
Taste Cooling, bitter taste

SECTION 2: PHYSICAL AND CHEMICAL PROPERTIES

Property Value Test Method / Note
Appearance White crystalline solid, granules or prills Visual
Odor Odorless (slight ammonia odor upon decomposition) Olfactometric
Molecular Weight 60.06 g/mol Calculated
Density 1.32 g/cm³ ASTM D4052
Melting Point 132.7°C DSC
Boiling Point Decomposes (~135°C)
Decomposition Temperature ~135°C (releases ammonia and CO₂)
Solubility in Water (20°C) ~108 g/100 mL (high solubility) General Method
Solubility in Ethanol Slightly soluble General Method
Solubility in Organic Solvents Slightly soluble General Method
pH (10% Solution) ~7.0 (neutral) pH Meter
Dissolution Heat Endothermic (absorbs heat when dissolved)
Stability Stable under normal conditions
Hygroscopicity Moderate
Nitrogen Content ~46.6% (highest among solid fertilizers) Kjeldahl
Heavy Metals (as Pb) ≤ 10 ppm AAS / ICP
Arsenic (As) ≤ 2 ppm AAS / ICP
Lead (Pb) ≤ 2 ppm AAS / ICP
Biuret Content ≤ 1.0% (fertilizer grade) HPLC
Moisture Content ≤ 0.5% Karl Fischer
Assay (Urea) ≥ 98.0 – 99.5% (grade dependent) HPLC / Titrimetric

SECTION 3: UREA vs OTHER NITROGEN FERTILIZERS

Property Urea (46-0-0) Ammonium Nitrate (34-0-0) Ammonium Sulfate (21-0-0) Calcium Nitrate (15.5-0-0)
CAS Number 57-13-6 6484-52-2 7783-20-2 10124-37-5
Nitrogen Content ~46% ~34% ~21% ~15.5%
Nitrogen Form Amide (converted to NH₄⁺ and NO₃⁻) NH₄⁺ + NO₃⁻ NH₄⁺ NO₃⁻
pH Effect on Soil Slightly acidifying Acidifying Strongly acidifying Alkaline
Solubility in Water Very high Very high High Very high
Explosive Potential No (low) Yes (as oxidizer) No No
Hygroscopicity Moderate Moderate Low High
Leaching Potential Moderate High Low High
Cost (per unit N) Low High High High

SECTION 4: MECHANISM OF ACTION

Property Description
Fertilizer (Nitrogen Source) Provides plant-available nitrogen; Urease enzyme converts urea to ammonium (NH₄⁺); Nitrification converts ammonium to nitrate (NO₃⁻); Plants absorb both ammonium and nitrate; Promotes vegetative growth, leaf development, and chlorophyll production.
Decomposition Decomposes upon heating: CO(NH₂)₂ + H₂O → CO₂ + 2NH₃; Releases ammonia (NH₃) and carbon dioxide (CO₂); Can volatilize if not incorporated into soil.
Hydrolysis Urease enzyme catalyzes hydrolysis: CO(NH₂)₂ + 2H₂O → (NH₄)₂CO₃; Produces ammonium carbonate; Can cause ammonia volatilization and pH increase.
Nitrification Soil bacteria oxidize ammonium to nitrite (NO₂⁻) and then to nitrate (NO₃⁻); Nitrate is readily absorbed by plants; Nitrification is pH-dependent (optimal at neutral pH).
Denitrification In waterlogged soils, nitrate can be converted to nitrogen gas (N₂) by denitrifying bacteria; Nitrogen loss to the atmosphere; Can be minimized by proper application timing.
Endothermic Dissolution Urea dissolves in water with heat absorption (endothermic); Solution temperature drops as urea dissolves; Cooling effect in solution.

SECTION 5: PRODUCTION PROCESS

Industrial Production Method (Bosch-Meiser Process):

Process Flow:
Ammonia (NH₃) + Carbon Dioxide (CO₂) → Ammonium Carbamate (NH₂COONH₄) → Urea (CO(NH₂)₂) + Water

Step-by-Step Description:

Step 1: Ammonia and CO₂ Reaction

2NH₃ + CO₂ → NH₂COONH₄ (Ammonium Carbamate)

Step 2: Dehydration to Urea

NH₂COONH₄ → CO(NH₂)₂ + H₂O

Process Details:

  1. Raw Materials: Ammonia (NH₃) and carbon dioxide (CO₂) are compressed to high pressure (150-250 bar) and heated to 180-210°C.

  2. Reaction: Ammonia and CO₂ react to form ammonium carbamate in the first reaction step.

  3. Dehydration: Ammonium carbamate dehydrates to form urea and water (equilibrium reaction).

  4. Separation: Urea is separated from the reaction mixture.

  5. Purification: Crude urea is purified by evaporation and crystallization.

  6. Prilling/Granulation: Urea is formed into prills or granules for agricultural use.

  7. Final Product: White granular or prilled urea (46% N).

Important: The reaction is reversible and equilibrium-limited. Unreacted ammonia and CO₂ are recycled.

SECTION 6: FUNCTIONAL PROPERTIES

Property Description
Fertilizer (Nitrogen Source) High nitrogen content (~46% N); Most commonly used nitrogen fertilizer; Supports vegetative growth and chlorophyll production; Used in agriculture globally.
Chemical Intermediate Precursor for urea-formaldehyde resins; Used in adhesives and glues (plywood, particleboard); Used in melamine production; Used in animal feed supplements.
De-icing Agent Used as a de-icing agent (runway, sidewalks); Lowers freezing point of water; Environmentally friendly alternative to salts.
Pharmaceutical Used in topical formulations (keratolytic agent, skin softener); Used in dermatology (treatment of hyperkeratosis); Used as a diuretic (rare).
Industrial Uses Used in production of urea nitrate (explosives); Used as a stabilizer in explosives (with nitrocellulose); Used in diesel exhaust fluid (DEF / AdBlue) for SCR systems; Used in hair removal products; Used in some cosmetic products.

SECTION 7: MAIN APPLICATION AREAS

Industry / Application Function Typical Use
Agriculture (Fertilizer) Nitrogen fertilizer, nutrient source Grain crops (corn, wheat, rice); Vegetables; Fruits; Pastures; Foliar spray; Fertigation; Side-dressing; Top-dressing; Dosage: 50-300 kg/ha (depending on crop and soil).
Chemical Industry Chemical intermediate, raw material Urea-formaldehyde resin production; Melamine production; Adhesives (plywood, particleboard); Urea nitrate production; Plastic additives; Coating resins.
Animal Feed Nitrogen supplement for ruminants Cattle, sheep, and goat feed; Non-protein nitrogen (NPN) source; Used as a protein substitute; Dosage: 1-3% of feed concentrate.
Automotive (DEF) Diesel exhaust fluid (AdBlue) SCR (Selective Catalytic Reduction) systems; Reduces NOx emissions in diesel engines; 32.5% urea solution in deionized water; Used in trucks, buses, and modern diesel vehicles.
Cosmetics & Personal Care Humectant, keratolytic agent Skin care products (moisturizers, creams); Hair removal products (depilatories); Nail care products; Topical dermatological preparations.
Pharmaceutical Excipient, diuretic (rare) Topical formulations; Dermatological products (keratolytic); Used in some drug formulations.
Environmental De-icing agent Runway de-icing; Sidewalk de-icing; Snow and ice melting; Environmentally friendly alternative.
Explosives Stabilizer, explosive precursor Urea nitrate (explosive); Stabilizer in nitrocellulose-based explosives.

SECTION 8: SAMPLE FORMULATIONS

Fertilizer Application (Broadcast):

Component Amount
Urea (46% N) 50 – 300 kg/ha
Application Timing Before planting or during growth
Application Method Broadcast, side-dress, top-dress, or fertigation

Instructions: Apply urea based on soil test results; Incorporate into soil immediately to reduce ammonia volatilization; Apply when soil moisture is adequate; Avoid application to wet foliage.

Diesel Exhaust Fluid (AdBlue / DEF) – 32.5% Urea Solution:

Component Amount
Urea (High Purity) 32.5 kg
Deionized Water To 100 L

Instructions: Dissolve high-purity urea in deionized water; Ensure complete dissolution; Filter to remove impurities; Store in appropriate containers; Use in SCR systems.

SECTION 9: QUALITY SPECIFICATIONS

Parameter Fertilizer Grade (Prilled/Granular) Industrial Grade Pharmaceutical Grade Automotive Grade (DEF) Test Method
Appearance White granules/prills White crystals White crystals White crystals Visual
Assay (Urea) ≥ 98.0% ≥ 99.0% ≥ 99.5% ≥ 99.5% HPLC / Titrimetric
Nitrogen Content ≥ 46.0% ≥ 46.0% ≥ 46.5% ≥ 46.5% Kjeldahl
Biuret Content ≤ 1.0% ≤ 0.5% ≤ 0.1% ≤ 0.3% HPLC
Moisture ≤ 0.5% ≤ 0.5% ≤ 0.3% ≤ 0.3% Karl Fischer
pH (10% Solution) 6.0 – 8.0 6.0 – 8.0 6.0 – 8.0 6.0 – 8.0 pH Meter
Heavy Metals (as Pb) ≤ 10 ppm ≤ 10 ppm ≤ 5 ppm ≤ 5 ppm AAS / ICP
Insoluble Matter ≤ 0.1% ≤ 0.05% ≤ 0.02% ≤ 0.01% Gravimetric
Particle Size 1-4 mm Customer requirement Customer requirement Customer requirement Sieve

SECTION 10: TOXICOLOGICAL PROFILE

Parameter Value
Acute Oral Toxicity (LD50, Rat) ~ 8,500 mg/kg (very low toxicity)
Acute Dermal Toxicity Low toxicity; Non-irritating
Skin Irritation Non-irritating
Eye Irritation Mildly irritating
Inhalation Toxicity May cause respiratory irritation (dust)
Chronic Toxicity Low toxicity; No significant adverse effects at normal use levels
Carcinogenicity Not classified as carcinogenic
Mutagenicity Not mutagenic
Reproductive Toxicity No reproductive toxicity at normal levels
Allergenicity Low allergenicity
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI) Not specified (safe as a food/feed ingredient)
Special Toxicity Note GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) for food and feed use; Low toxicity; Non-toxic at normal use levels; May cause ammonia irritation upon decomposition; Dust inhalation may cause respiratory irritation; Decomposition releases ammonia and CO₂; Generally considered safe for agricultural and industrial use.

SECTION 11: GHS CLASSIFICATION AND LABELING

GHS Classification (in accordance with CLP and UN GHS):

Hazard Class Category H-Statement
Not classified as hazardous according to CLP criteria

Signal Word: None (Not classified as hazardous)

Hazard Pictograms: None

NFPA 704 Hazard Classification:

Health Flammability Reactivity Special
0 0 0 -
(Minimal health hazard) (Non-flammable) (Stable) (None)

SECTION 12: PRECAUTIONARY STATEMENTS (P-CODES)

Code Statement
P264 Wash hands thoroughly after handling
P271 Use only outdoors or in a well-ventilated area
P280 Wear protective gloves/protective clothing/eye protection/face protection
P302+P352 IF ON SKIN: Wash with plenty of soap and water
P304+P340 IF INHALED: Remove person to fresh air and keep comfortable for breathing
P305+P351+P338 IF IN EYES: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses if present and continue rinsing
P332+P313 If skin irritation occurs: Get medical advice/attention
P337+P313 If eye irritation persists: Get medical advice/attention
P362+P364 Take off contaminated clothing and wash it before reuse
P403+P233 Store in a well-ventilated place. Keep container tightly closed
P501 Dispose of contents/container in accordance with local/regional/national/international regulations

SECTION 13: FIRST AID MEASURES

Exposure Route Action to Take
Inhalation Remove to fresh air immediately. If respiratory irritation develops, seek medical attention.
Skin Contact Wash with plenty of soap and water. Remove contaminated clothing. If irritation persists, get medical attention.
Eye Contact Rinse immediately with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes. Keep eyelids open. Remove contact lenses if present. If irritation persists, seek medical attention.
Ingestion Rinse mouth. Drink plenty of water. Seek medical attention if large quantities are ingested or if feeling unwell.

SECTION 14: FIREFIGHTING MEASURES

Parameter Information
Fire Hazard Non-flammable organic material. May burn with thick smoke at high temperatures.
Hazards Arising from Fire Thermal decomposition produces ammonia (NH₃), nitrogen oxides (NOx), carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, and irritating fumes.
Suitable Extinguishing Media Water spray, CO₂, dry chemical powder, foam.
Unsuitable Extinguishing Media Water jet (may spread dust)
Special Protective Equipment Self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA), full protective clothing.
Special Precautions Prevent dust from entering sewers and waterways. Avoid dust cloud formation.

SECTION 15: STORAGE AND SHELF LIFE

Parameter Information
Storage Conditions Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area; PROTECT FROM LIGHT, HEAT, and MOISTURE; Keep away from direct sunlight and high temperatures.
Container Requirements Tightly closed, moisture-proof containers (PE-lined bags, HDPE containers).
Materials to Protect From Moisture, heat, acids, bases, oxidizing agents
Shelf Life 24 – 48 months (in unopened original packaging, under proper storage conditions).
Stability Note Stable under recommended storage conditions; Hygroscopic (absorbs moisture); May cake if exposed to high humidity; Decomposes at high temperatures (releases ammonia).
Special Storage Requirements Store in a dry, cool place; Avoid exposure to air and moisture; Opened containers must be resealed immediately; Keep away from sources of heat.

SECTION 16: PACKAGING OPTIONS

Packaging Type Quantity Material
PE-Lined Paper Bag 25 kg, 40 kg, 50 kg PE-lined kraft paper bag (moisture-proof)
Plastic Bag 5 kg, 10 kg, 25 kg, 50 kg PE bag (inner-lined, sealed, moisture-proof)
Fiber Drum 20 kg, 25 kg PE-lined fiberboard drum
Plastic Drum 25 kg, 50 kg HDPE / Polypropylene (moisture-proof)
FIBC / Big Bag 500 kg, 1000 kg PE-lined, moisture-resistant PP woven bag

SECTION 17: TRANSPORT INFORMATION

Parameter Information
UN Number Not regulated (non-hazardous)
Hazard Class Not applicable
Packing Group Not applicable
ADR/RID Not regulated
IMDG Code Not regulated (non-hazardous)
IATA (Air) Not regulated (non-hazardous)
Marine Pollutant No
Transport Temperature Ambient temperature; Protect from moisture and heat.

SECTION 18: REGULATORY STATUS

Region / Authority Status
European Union Approved for use in agriculture, feed, and industrial applications; REACH registered.
USA (TSCA) Listed (TSCA Inventory)
USA (FDA) GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) ; 21 CFR 184.1923; Approved for food and feed use.
Turkey Approved for agricultural, industrial, and feed use; Ministry of Agriculture approval for fertilizer use; KKDIK regulation compliance required.
EFSA Approved for feed use; Safe for animal consumption; No ADI specified.
IARC Not classified (non-carcinogenic)
NTP Not listed
OSHA Regulated as nuisance dust
California (Prop 65) Not listed
Halal Yes (with certification)
Kosher Yes (with certification)
Vegan Yes (synthetic, no animal ingredients)

SECTION 19: OTHER NAMES AND SYNONYMS

Type Name
Turkish Names Üre, Karbamit, Karbamid, Üreum
English Names Urea, Carbamide, Carbonyldiamide, Ureum, Carbonyl Diamine, Diaminomethanal
CAS Number 57-13-6
EC Number 200-315-5
HS Code 3102.10

SECTION 20: SUMMARY TABLE

Parameter Value
Product Urea (Carbamide)
CAS Number 57-13-6
Molecular Formula CO(NH₂)₂ (CH₄N₂O)
Molecular Weight 60.06 g/mol
Appearance White crystalline granules/prills
Melting Point 132.7°C
Solubility in Water (20°C) ~108 g/100 mL
Nitrogen Content ~46.6% (highest among solid fertilizers)
Primary Functions Fertilizer, chemical intermediate, feed additive, DEF
Main Application Areas Agriculture, chemical industry, animal feed, automotive (DEF), cosmetics, pharmaceuticals
Shelf Life 24 – 48 months
GHS Signal Word None (Not classified as hazardous)
UN Number Not regulated
Special Properties Highest nitrogen content; Organic amide; Endothermic dissolution; Converted to ammonium by urease; Hygroscopic; GRAS status; Non-toxic; Vegan; Halal.

SECTION 21: CRITICAL WARNINGS AND BEST PRACTICES

CRITICAL WARNINGS:

  • GRAS Status: FDA GRAS; EFSA approved; Safe for agricultural, feed, and industrial use.

  • High Nitrogen Content: 46% N; Most concentrated nitrogen fertilizer; Lowest transport cost per unit of nitrogen.

  • Volatilization: Urea can volatilize ammonia (NH₃) if not incorporated into soil; Incorporate into soil immediately after application.

  • Hygroscopic: Absorbs moisture from air; Store in tightly closed containers.

  • Caking: May cake if exposed to high humidity; Use anti-caking agents if needed.

  • Endothermic Dissolution: Absorbs heat when dissolved; Cooling effect in solution.

  • Biuret Content: High biuret content can damage crops; Use low-biuret urea for foliar applications.

  • Non-Toxic: Low toxicity; Safe at normal use levels.

  • Decomposition: Decomposes at high temperatures (>135°C) releasing ammonia and CO₂.

  • Most Common Fertilizer: The most widely used nitrogen fertilizer globally (over 90% of urea production).

BEST PRACTICE RECOMMENDATIONS:

  • Agriculture (Fertilizer): Apply as nitrogen fertilizer; Dosage: 50-300 kg/ha; Based on soil test results; Incorporate into soil immediately to reduce volatilization; Apply when soil moisture is adequate; Avoid application to wet foliage; Use low-biuret urea for foliar applications; Use urease inhibitors if needed.

  • Animal Feed: Use as non-protein nitrogen (NPN) source for ruminants; Dosage: 1-3% of feed concentrate; Mix thoroughly; Ensure adequate carbohydrate sources; Use with caution; Follow feed safety guidelines.

  • Chemical Industry: Use as chemical intermediate; Urea-formaldehyde resin production; Melamine production; Adhesive production; Urea nitrate production; Follow industrial safety protocols.

  • Automotive (DEF): Use high-purity urea for DEF/AdBlue; Concentration: 32.5%; Use deionized water; Store in appropriate containers; Protect from contamination.

  • Cosmetics: Use as humectant and keratolytic agent; Dosage: 1-20% depending on product; Dissolve in water phase; Use in moisturizers, creams, and hair removal products.

  • Handling: Use in well-ventilated areas; Avoid dust formation; Use dust masks when handling powder; Use gloves and safety goggles.

  • Personal Protective Equipment: Dust mask (N95/FFP2) if dust is generated, safety goggles, chemical-resistant gloves, protective clothing.

  • Hygiene: Wash hands thoroughly after handling; Do not eat, drink, or smoke while using; Remove contaminated clothing and wash before reuse.

  • Storage: Store in tightly closed, moisture-proof containers; Store in cool, dry, well-ventilated area; Protect from moisture and heat; Opened containers must be resealed immediately; Shelf life: 24-48 months under proper conditions.

  • Spill Management: Sweep or vacuum (HEPA) and place in suitable sealed container; Avoid dust formation; Do not allow entry into drains or waterways; Dissolve in water if necessary.

  • Disposal: Dispose of in accordance with local, regional, and national regulations; Non-hazardous waste; Can be dissolved and discharged (check local regulations).

DETECTION METHODS:

Method Description Advantages Disadvantages
Kjeldahl Method Nitrogen determination Standard method, accurate Time-consuming
HPLC Quantitative analysis of urea High sensitivity, accurate High cost, requires expertise
Urease Method Enzymatic determination Specific, sensitive Requires enzyme reagent
Colorimetric (DMAB) p-Dimethylaminobenzaldehyde method Simple, rapid Requires specific reagent
Refractometry Brix measurement Rapid, simple Not specific
pH Meter pH of solution Simple, rapid Indicative only

UREA vs ALTERNATIVES COMPARISON:

Product Chemical Name / E Code Application Strength Weakness Status
Urea CO(NH₂)₂ Fertilizer, industry, feed Highest N content, cheap, versatile Volatilization, caking, hygroscopic Widely approved
Ammonium Nitrate NH₄NO₃ Fertilizer, explosives Fast N release, both NH₄⁺ and NO₃⁻ Explosive hazard, security risk Regulated
Ammonium Sulfate (NH₄)₂SO₄ Fertilizer Sulfur + nitrogen, safe Low N content (21%), acidifying Widely approved
Calcium Nitrate Ca(NO₃)₂ Fertilizer Quick nitrate nitrogen, soil-friendly Low N content (15.5%), higher cost Widely approved
UAN (Solution) Urea + Ammonium Nitrate Liquid fertilizer Convenient, easy application Lower concentration, transport cost Widely approved

LEGAL DISCLAIMER:
The information provided in this document is based on our current knowledge and experience and is presented in good faith. However, as all conditions of use are beyond our control, it does not constitute a binding specification or warranty. This Technical Data Sheet is for informational purposes only. Users are responsible for testing the suitability for their own applications and for complying with all local, regional, and national regulations. For complete safety, storage, use, handling, waste, and regulatory compliance information, please refer to the official Safety Data Sheet (SDS/MSDS) provided by the manufacturer/supplier.

Images

Do you have questions? Let us help!

Effective Business Solutions? — Get in Contact
Scroll