Properties of Urea 46%:

1. Chemical Formula: CO(NH₂)₂
2. Molecular Weight: 60.06 g/mol
3. Appearance: White, crystalline granules or prills.
4. Nitrogen Content: 46% by weight.
5. Solubility: Highly soluble in water.
6. pH: Slightly alkaline (pH ~7.5–8.5 in solution).
7. Hygroscopic Nature: Absorbs moisture from the air, which can cause caking if not stored properly.

Applications of Urea 46%:

1. Agriculture:
   • Urea 46% is primarily used as a nitrogen fertilizer to promote plant growth and increase crop yields.
   • It is suitable for a wide range of crops, including cereals, vegetables, and fruits.
2. Industrial Uses:
   • Used in the production of urea-formaldehyde resins, which are used in adhesives, plywood, and particleboard.
   • Used as a raw material in the production of melamine and explosives.
3. Animal Feed:
   • Urea is used as a non-protein nitrogen (NPN) source in ruminant animal feed to supplement dietary protein.
4. Environmental Applications:
   • Used in selective catalytic reduction (SCR) systems to reduce nitrogen oxide (NOₓ) emissions from vehicles and industrial plants.

Advantages of Urea 46%:

1. High Nitrogen Content: Provides a concentrated source of nitrogen for plants.
2. Cost-Effective: Economical compared to other nitrogen fertilizers.
3. Versatility: Suitable for a wide range of crops and industrial applications.

Disadvantages of Urea 46%:

1. Volatilization Losses:
   • Urea can lose nitrogen through ammonia volatilization if not properly applied.
2. Caking:
   • Urea granules can absorb moisture and cake if not stored properly.
3. Environmental Impact:
   • Overuse can lead to soil acidification and water pollution.