Thiourea
A corrosion inhibitor, metal complexing agent, and chemical intermediate in industries such as oil and gas, mining, and electroplating.
CAS # 62-56-6
Thiourea is a white crystalline solid that is structurally similar to urea, except that the oxygen atom in urea is replaced by sulfur. It is highly soluble in water and polar organic solvents, and it exhibits reducing, complexing, and catalytic properties.
In industrial applications, thiourea is valued as a versatile intermediate and functional additive in various chemical processes across sectors such as mining, oil and gas, electroplating, photography, and pharmaceuticals.
General Information and Properties
Chemical Name: Sulfourea Thiocarbamide
Empirical Formula: SC(NH2)
Appearance: White Solid Powder
Melting Poing: 182℃
Applications
Metallurgy and Mining:
Used as a non-cyanide leaching agent for the extraction of precious metals like gold and silver, providing an alternative to cyanide-based processes.
Oil and Gas Industry:
Functions as a corrosion inhibitor in acidizing, pickling, and stimulation fluids, protecting steel surfaces from attack by strong acids. Sometimes used as a hydrogen sulfide scavenger or additive in formulations designed to mitigate sulfide stress.
Chemical Intermediate:
Serves as a precursor for thiourea dioxide, thiocarbamide derivatives, and other sulfur-containing compounds used in textile processing, resins, and pharmaceuticals.
Photographic and Analytical Applications:
Employed in photographic fixing and toning solutions due to its silver complexing ability.
Textiles and Paper Industry:
Acts as a reducing agent and bleaching stabilizer, particularly in processes involving dyes and pigments.
Advantages
Effective corrosion inhibition and metal protection at low dosages
Serves as a safer alternative to cyanide in metal recovery
Chemically versatile and compatible with various formulations
Safety and Handling
Thiourea is toxic and potentially carcinogenic, requiring careful handling under controlled industrial conditions. Proper PPE, ventilation, and waste management are essential to ensure safe use.