Urea (46% N)

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)