Urea AR (ACS)

This Urea AR, ACS is an analytical reagent grade chemical supplied in white crystalline, powder or prill form.

Also known as isourea, carbamide, carbamimidic acid, carbonyl diamide or carbonyl diamine, it is almost odourless and has a saline taste. Typical assay is 99.0–100.5%, CAS No. 57-13-6, molecular weight 60.06.

Physical Properties & Solubility

Urea is a solid that is hygroscopic under ambient conditions. It is very soluble in methanol and ethanol, and soluble in water (where it can decompose to ammonia and carbon dioxide). It is insoluble in benzene. The material is non-combustible.

Compatibility & Hazards

It is incompatible with strong oxidising agents and certain plastics such as ABS, PVC and polyethylene. It is not classified as dangerous goods under the Australian Dangerous Goods Code (ADG) and is considered non-hazardous under the Globally Harmonised System (GHS) for classification and labelling in Australia.

Applications & Uses

This chemical is a versatile chemical intermediate and reagent used in the manufacture of synthetic resins, plastics, adhesives, solvents and pharmaceuticals.

Typical laboratory and industrial applications include protein denaturation in biochemistry, reagent preparation (for example, biuret), production of fertilisers, animal feeds, paper coatings, flameproofing agents, and separation of hydrocarbons as urea adducts.

Storage & Handling

Store urea in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, heat and ignition sources. Keep containers tightly closed and dry to prevent hygroscopic uptake. Avoid mixing with oxidising agents or materials that support combustion.

Use appropriate personal protective measures when handling to prevent dust exposure or contact with eyes and skin.

Disposal & Regulatory Notes

Waste urea must be disposed of in accordance with local and national regulations. Retain chemicals in original containers for disposal whenever possible. Urea is not a scheduled poison and is supplied as non-dangerous goods, but always follow local environmental and workplace safety procedures.

Product Features

• High Purity AR Grade: Ensures consistent analytical performance for laboratory assays and reagent preparation.
• Versatile Intermediate: Serves as a feedstock for resins, adhesives, fertilisers, pharmaceuticals and biochemical reagents.
• Wide Solubility Profile: Highly soluble in alcohols and water, supporting diverse formulation and analytical workflows.
• Non-Combustible Material: Reduces fire risk during storage and handling under normal conditions.
• Regulatory Clarity: Not classified as dangerous goods (ADG) and considered non-hazardous under GHS in Australia, simplifying transport & storage compliance.
• Hygroscopic Awareness: Advises dry storage to maintain quality, enhancing shelf-life and analytical reliability.