Technical Grade Urea is a solid organic compound with the chemical formula (NH₂)₂CO, commonly known for its high nitrogen content. Urea is primarily synthesized from ammonia (NH₃) and carbon dioxide (CO₂) through the Bosch-Meiser urea process. It is the most widely used nitrogenous fertilizer globally but is also used in a variety of industrial applications beyond agriculture. The “technical grade” designation refers to urea that is used for industrial purposes, as opposed to pharmaceutical grade or agricultural grade urea.
Properties of Technical Grade Urea:
- Molecular Formula: (NH₂)₂CO
- Molar Mass: 60.06 g/mol
- Appearance: White crystalline solid or granules. It is usually odorless but can develop a slight ammonia-like odor upon degradation or exposure to moisture.
- Melting Point: 132.7°C (271°F)
- Boiling Point: Decomposes before boiling at around 150°C (302°F)
- Solubility: Highly soluble in water (~1080 g/L at 20°C). It forms a colorless solution that is often used in aqueous applications.
- Density: 1.32 g/cm³ (solid)
- pH: Typically 6 to 8 in aqueous solutions
- Hygroscopic: Urea is hygroscopic, meaning it can absorb moisture from the air and may form a slightly wet surface when exposed to humid environments.
Key Uses of Technical Grade Urea:
- Agriculture: Urea is primarily used as a nitrogen fertilizer.
- Industrial Synthesis: In the manufacture of plastics (e.g., urea-formaldehyde resins).
- Adhesives and Coatings: Used in the production of adhesives and coatings.
- Automotive: Used in diesel engines for reducing nitrogen oxide emissions in SCR (Selective Catalytic Reduction) systems.