CH4N2Se

CH4N2Se, commonly known as selenourea, is the selenium analogue of urea. Replacing the carbonyl oxygen of urea with selenium yields a compound with the formula CH4N2Se. Structurally it features a central carbon double bonded to selenium and singly bonded to two amino groups (H2N–C(=Se)–NH2).

Selenourea is a colorless to white crystalline solid. It is soluble in water and many polar organic solvents. It is stable at ambient conditions but may decompose upon strong heating.

Several routes are reported for its preparation, including direct reaction of urea with elemental selenium under dehydrating conditions, or conversion of thiourea derivatives by selenium insertion. These approaches provide access to selenourea and related selenium-containing derivatives.

Applications of CH4N2Se include its use as a precursor in the synthesis of selenium-containing compounds, including selenourea derivatives and ligands for coordination chemistry. It serves as a source of selenium in organic synthesis and as a building block for materials and catalysts.

Safety considerations are important: selenourea and related selenium compounds can be toxic if ingested, inhaled, or absorbed through the skin. Handle with appropriate personal protective equipment in a well-ventilated area and dispose of waste according to applicable regulations.