ammoniumkarbamaatin

Ammonium carbamate is the ammonium salt of carbamic acid, with the chemical formula NH2COONH4. It is a white, crystalline solid that is hygroscopic and highly soluble in water. The compound decomposes when heated to form urea and water.

Industrial production and role

Ammonium carbamate forms by the reaction of ammonia with carbon dioxide: 2 NH3 + CO2 → NH2COONH4. It is the key intermediate in the industrial synthesis of urea, where ammonium carbamate dehydrates to give urea: NH2COONH4 → (NH2)2CO + H2O. In commercial plants, this dehydration step is a central part of the urea production process (often associated with the Bosch process).

Properties and behavior

At ambient conditions it exists as a stable solid, but it is thermally unstable and readily loses water to yield urea. It is soluble in water and tends to absorb moisture from the air (hygroscopic).

Occurrence and uses

Ammonium carbamate is not found as a natural mineral; it is synthesized for chemical production. Its primary use is as an intermediate in the manufacture of urea, which is a major fertilizer and chemical feedstock. In some processes it may appear transiently in systems involving CO2 and ammonia, including certain carbon capture or chemical synthesis workflows.

Safety and handling

The compound is irritant to skin, eyes, and respiratory surfaces. It should be stored in a cool, dry area away from acids and moisture, with appropriate ventilation and standard chemical-handling precautions.