Urea

Description

Urea is an organic chemical compound made up of carbon, nitrogen, oxygen, and hydrogen, represented by the chemical formula CO(NH₂)₂. It appears as a white crystalline solid that is highly soluble in water. Primarily, urea serves as a nitrogen-rich fertilizer, but it also has numerous industrial applications, including its role in the production of plastics and resins.

Shipment and Storage

Urea is shipped in bags, drums, or in bulk. It should be stored in cool, dry, well-ventilated areas, typically in sealed bags or under tarpaulins to prevent moisture absorption. Urea must not contact alkaline substances like lime and should be kept cool to avoid toxic gas emissions.

Risk Factors

Though urea poses no significant hazards, dust mitigation and PPE measures should be considered during handling.

Dust Risk:

Urea dust should be treated as a nuisance dust. In minimal amounts, it is generally considered harmless; however, prolonged exposure in the workplace can lead to respiratory problems such as emphysema. Contact with urea dust may cause discomfort and irritation to both the eyes and soft tissues. Additionally, repeated or prolonged skin contact with urea can result in dermatitis.

Explosion Risk:

Although urea itself is not easily combustible under standard conditions and poses a low fire risk, finely divided organic dust can create explosive mixtures with air when ignited in a confined space.