Urea, a nitrogen-rich compound with the chemical formula CO(NH), plays a significant role in the oil and gas industry, Urea, also known as carbamide, is a highly soluble organic compound. It is synthesized on a large scale from ammonia and carbon dioxide and is primarily used in fertilizers, which accounts for about 90% of its global production.
Chemical Properties
Molecular Formula: CO(NH)
Molar Mass: 60.06 g/mol
Appearance: White, crystalline solid
Melting Point: 133C (271F)
Solubility: Highly soluble in water, forming a neutral solution
Industrial Production
The production of urea typically involves the following steps:
Ammonia Production: Sourced primarily from natural gas (methane) through the Haber-Bosch process.
Reaction with Carbon Dioxide: Ammonia reacts with carbon dioxide to produce ammonium carbamate, which is then dehydrated to form urea and water:2 3 2+ 2NH 3 +CO 2 NH 2 CONH 2 +H 2 O
Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF): Urea is used to reduce nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions from diesel engines. DEF, a mixture of 32.5% urea and 67.5% deionized water, is injected into the exhaust stream of diesel engines.
Oil Drilling Fluids: Urea can be used in drilling mud formulations to enhance the efficiency of the drilling process.
Chemical Manufacturing: Urea serves as a feedstock in the production of various chemicals such as melamine and urea-formaldehyde resins.
Desulfurization: It is used in processes to remove sulfur compounds from petroleum products.
Market Dynamics
Demand: The demand for urea is largely driven by its use in agriculture. However, industrial uses, including those related to the oil and gas sector, contribute significantly to its market.
Pricing: Urea prices are influenced by the cost of natural gas, the primary raw material, and global agricultural demand cycles and NEGOTIABLE
Environmental Impact: While urea itself is not hazardous, its overuse in agriculture can lead to environmental issues such as eutrophication.
Handling and Storage: Urea should be stored in a cool, dry place away from moisture, as it is highly hygroscopic. It is considered non-toxic, but proper safety measures should be followed to avoid dust inhalation or skin contact.
Logistics: Efficient transportation and storage solutions are vital to maintain urea quality and manage costs.
Regulations: Compliance with international and local regulations regarding chemical handling, safety, and environmental impact is crucial.
Market Opportunities: Identifying and targeting markets with growing industrial and agricultural demand for urea can enhance profitability.
Origin: Russia/ Kazakhstan.
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