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Urea is a nitrogenous compound produced during protein metabolism in humans and mammals. It is excreted in urine as the main waste product of ammonia detoxification. Through the Bosch–Meiser process, urea can be synthesized industrially from ammonia and carbon dioxide, making it the most widely used nitrogen‑rich fertilizer and a versatile component in pharmaceuticals, plastics, and cleaning agents.
The compound was first isolated in 1773 by French chemist Hillaire Rouelle. Fifty‑five years later, in 1828, German chemist Friedrich Wöhler successfully synthesized urea, becoming the first organic compound ever created in a laboratory setting.
Urea’s high nitrogen content makes it an exceptionally efficient fertilizer. Its water‑soluble nature allows rapid absorption by plant roots, and it is particularly effective when applied to sod and winter wheat during cooler months. Timing the application before rainfall ensures thorough incorporation into the soil.
Urea is non‑combustible and stable, allowing for long‑term storage without special precautions. Its fine, granular structure, however, can pose handling challenges; conveyor belts are preferred over augers for efficient transport.
Beyond agriculture, urea’s solubility and chemical versatility make it a key ingredient in plastics, household cleaners, and animal feed. In medicine, it serves dermatological preparations, acts as a diuretic, and is incorporated into barbiturate formulations.
Humans generate approximately 30 g of urea daily, mainly excreted in urine with a trace amount through sweat. Monitoring urinary urea concentrations can provide early indicators of kidney dysfunction or dehydration.
