Overview
Urea (CO(NH₂)₂) is a synthetic organic compound widely used as a nitrogen fertilizer in agriculture and as a feedstock in chemical industries. With a nitrogen content of 46% by weight, it is the most concentrated solid nitrogen fertilizer available on the market, offering cost-effective nutrient delivery for crops. Urea is also used in the production of resins, plastics, adhesives, and as a key input in diesel exhaust fluid (DEF/AdBlue®) for emissions control.
Technical Characteristics
- Chemical Formula: CO(NH₂)₂
- Nitrogen Content: 46% min. by weight
- Appearance: White crystalline granules or prills, free-flowing
- Moisture Content: ≤ 0.5%
- Biuret Content: ≤ 1.5% by weight
- Particle Size:
- Granular: 2–4 mm (90% min.)
- Prilled: 1–2.8 mm (90% min.)
- Bulk Density: ~0.72–0.75 g/cm³
- Melting Point: 132–135°C
- Solubility in Water: 108 g/100 mL @ 20°C (highly soluble)
- pH (10% solution): 7.0–7.5
Specifications & Standards
- Manufactured according to ISO 22241, ASTM D7447, and FAO/WHO fertilizer standards
- Available in Granular (Agricultural grade) and Prilled (Industrial/Feedstock grade)
- Meets international export specifications for fertilizer-grade urea
Applications
- Agriculture:
- Widely applied as a nitrogen fertilizer for cereals, grains, fruits, vegetables, and oilseeds
- Can be broadcast, side-dressed, or incorporated into soil
- Suitable for foliar sprays and fertigation (after dissolution)
- Industrial Use:
- Raw material for urea-formaldehyde resins, adhesives, plastics, and coatings
- Used in the production of melamine and other nitrogen-based chemicals
- Environmental Applications:
- Component of Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF/AdBlue®) to reduce NOx emissions in diesel engines
- Animal Feed:
- Non-protein nitrogen supplement for ruminant livestock (controlled use)
Performance Advantages
- High Nitrogen Content: Provides maximum nutrient value per unit weight
- Versatility: Usable across agriculture, chemical manufacturing, and environmental applications
- Easy Application: Free-flowing and compatible with most fertilizer application methods
- High Solubility: Suitable for liquid fertilizer blends and foliar applications
Handling & Storage
- Hygroscopic: Must be stored in cool, dry, well-ventilated areas to avoid caking and moisture absorption
- Avoid direct exposure to sunlight and water
- Use corrosion-resistant containers and handling equipment
- Non-flammable and stable under normal storage conditions
Compliance & Testing
- Typical testing includes nitrogen content (Kjeldahl or Dumas method), biuret level, moisture content, and granule size distribution
- Supplied with independent Quality & Quantity (Q&Q) inspection reports (SGS, CIQ, Intertek)