Urea, also known as carbamide, is a safe, useful compound with a significant history. It is a naturally occurring molecule that is produced by protein metabolism and found abundantly in mammalian urine.
What is urea used for?
Urea is used as a fertilizer and feed supplement, as well as a starting material for the manufacture of plastics and drugs.
What is urea made of?
Urea is manufactured synthetically by reacting natural gas, atmospheric nitrogen and water together at high temperature and pressure to produce ammonia and carbon dioxide. These gases are then reacted at high temperature and pressure to produce molten (liquid) urea.