Urea 46%
Urea 46%, also known as carbamide, is a white crystalline solid containing 46% nitrogen, making it one of the most concentrated nitrogen fertilizers available. It is synthesized from ammonia and carbon dioxide through the Haber-Bosch process and is highly soluble in water, facilitating its application in various forms.
Urea 46%
Urea 46%, also known as carbamide, is a white crystalline solid containing 46% nitrogen, making it one of the most concentrated nitrogen fertilizers available. It is synthesized from ammonia and carbon dioxide through the Haber-Bosch process and is highly soluble in water, facilitating its application in various forms.
Chemical and Physical Properties
- Chemical Formula: CO(NH2)2
- Nitrogen Content: 46% by weight
- Biuret Content: Maximum 1.0%
- Moisture Content: Maximum 0.5%
- Granulometry: Granules typically range from 2 to 4 mm in size
- Color: White
- Solubility: Highly soluble in water
Applications
- Agriculture:
- Fertilizer: Urea 46% is primarily used as a nitrogen fertilizer in agriculture. Its high nitrogen content promotes green, leafy growth and boosts crop yields. It can be applied directly to the soil, incorporated into irrigation systems, or used as a foliar spray.
- Efficiency: Due to its high nitrogen concentration, urea is cost-effective for transportation and storage. It should be appropriately incorporated into the soil to minimize nitrogen loss through volatilization.
- Animal Feed:
- Nutritional Additive: Urea is used as a non-protein nitrogen source in the diets of ruminant animals like cattle and sheep. It helps improve the protein content of the feed, enhancing digestibility and nutrient intake
- Industrial Applications:
- Chemical Manufacturing: Urea is a critical ingredient in the production of urea-formaldehyde resins, which are used in the manufacture of adhesives, laminates, and molded products
- Melamine Production: Urea is used to produce melamine, a compound used in creating laminates, flame retardants, and various plastics
- Environmental and Automotive Uses:
- Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF): Urea is a DEF component that reduces nitrogen oxide emissions in diesel engines. This helps in meeting environmental regulations and reducing air pollution
- Pharmaceutical and Cosmetic Industries:
- Medical Uses: Urea is utilized in pharmaceuticals, particularly in diuretics and skin care products, due to its moisturizing properties
- Medical Uses: Urea is utilized in pharmaceuticals, particularly in diuretics and skin care products, due to its moisturizing properties
Advantages
- High Nitrogen Content: Urea 46% provides significant nitrogen, essential for plant growth.
- Cost-Effective: It offers the lowest cost per unit of nitrogen compared to other fertilizers.
- Versatile Application: It can be used in various forms (solid and liquid) and applied in different methods (soil and foliar).
Considerations
- Proper Application: To prevent nitrogen loss, urea should be incorporated into the soil or applied with adequate moisture to ensure effective absorption.
- Environmental Impact: If not managed correctly, urea can lead to ammonia volatilization, impacting air quality and soil health.
Urea 46% is a versatile and highly efficient nitrogen fertilizer crucial for modern agriculture, industrial applications, and environmental management. Proper handling and application are essential to maximize its benefits and minimize potential drawbacks.
