What are the hydrolysis conditions of Cyanamide 420 - 04 - 2?
Oct 13, 2025| As a supplier of Cyanamide 420 - 04 - 2, I've encountered numerous inquiries regarding its hydrolysis conditions. This chemical compound has a wide range of applications, from agriculture to pharmaceuticals, and understanding its hydrolysis is crucial for its proper use and handling. In this blog, I'll delve into the hydrolysis conditions of Cyanamide 420 - 04 - 2, providing detailed insights based on scientific research and practical experience.
Understanding Cyanamide 420 - 04 - 2
Cyanamide 420 - 04 - 2, also known as simply cyanamide, is a colorless to white crystalline solid with the chemical formula H₂NCN. It is an important industrial chemical that serves as a precursor for the synthesis of various chemicals, including melamine, dicyandiamide, and cyanuric acid. Cyanamide is also used in agriculture as a plant growth regulator and a nitrogen fertilizer. You can learn more about Cyanamide 420 - 04 - 2 on our website.
Hydrolysis Mechanism of Cyanamide
Hydrolysis is a chemical reaction in which a compound reacts with water to form new compounds. In the case of cyanamide, the hydrolysis reaction can be represented by the following equation:
H₂NCN + 2H₂O → CO₂ + 2NH₃
This reaction occurs in two steps. First, cyanamide reacts with water to form carbamic acid (H₂NCOOH). Then, carbamic acid decomposes into carbon dioxide and ammonia. The overall reaction is exothermic, meaning it releases heat.
Factors Affecting the Hydrolysis of Cyanamide
Several factors can influence the hydrolysis rate and extent of cyanamide, including temperature, pH, and the presence of catalysts.
Temperature
Temperature plays a significant role in the hydrolysis of cyanamide. Generally, an increase in temperature accelerates the hydrolysis reaction. At higher temperatures, the kinetic energy of the molecules increases, leading to more frequent and energetic collisions between cyanamide and water molecules. As a result, the reaction rate increases. However, extremely high temperatures can also lead to the decomposition of cyanamide and other by - products, which may affect the quality of the final products.
pH
The pH of the solution is another critical factor. Cyanamide hydrolysis is pH - dependent. In acidic solutions, the hydrolysis rate is relatively slow. This is because the protonation of the nitrogen atom in cyanamide reduces its reactivity towards water. On the other hand, in alkaline solutions, the hydroxide ions (OH⁻) can react with cyanamide, facilitating the hydrolysis process. The optimal pH for the hydrolysis of cyanamide is typically in the alkaline range, around pH 9 - 11.
Catalysts
The presence of catalysts can significantly enhance the hydrolysis rate of cyanamide. Metal ions such as copper, zinc, and iron can act as catalysts. These metal ions can coordinate with cyanamide and water molecules, lowering the activation energy of the reaction and increasing the reaction rate. For example, copper(II) ions can form complexes with cyanamide, which makes the cyanamide more susceptible to attack by water molecules.
Hydrolysis Conditions in Different Applications
The hydrolysis conditions of cyanamide can vary depending on its specific application.
In Agriculture
In agriculture, cyanamide is often used as a plant growth regulator and a nitrogen fertilizer. When applied to the soil, cyanamide hydrolyzes slowly to release ammonia, which provides a slow - release source of nitrogen for plants. The hydrolysis in the soil is influenced by the soil temperature, moisture content, and pH. In warm and moist soils with a slightly alkaline pH, the hydrolysis of cyanamide occurs more rapidly, ensuring a timely supply of nitrogen to the plants.
In Chemical Synthesis
In chemical synthesis, the hydrolysis of cyanamide is carefully controlled to obtain the desired products. For example, when synthesizing dicyandiamide from cyanamide, the hydrolysis conditions need to be precisely adjusted to prevent the over - hydrolysis of cyanamide to ammonia and carbon dioxide. A controlled amount of water and a specific pH range are maintained to promote the dimerization of cyanamide to dicyandiamide.
Comparison with Related Chemicals
It's interesting to compare the hydrolysis conditions of cyanamide with related chemicals. For instance, Granular Calcium Carbide for Chemical is another important industrial chemical. When calcium carbide reacts with water, it produces acetylene gas and calcium hydroxide. The reaction is highly exothermic and occurs rapidly, unlike the relatively slower hydrolysis of cyanamide.


Another related chemical is 50% Cyanamide. The hydrolysis behavior of 50% cyanamide solution is similar to that of pure cyanamide, but the presence of water in the solution already initiates the hydrolysis process to some extent. The concentration of cyanamide in the solution also affects the hydrolysis rate, with higher concentrations generally leading to a faster initial hydrolysis rate.
Practical Considerations for Suppliers and Users
As a supplier of Cyanamide 420 - 04 - 2, we understand the importance of providing accurate information about its hydrolysis conditions to our customers. We ensure that our products are properly stored and transported to prevent premature hydrolysis. For users, it's essential to follow the recommended storage and handling procedures. Cyanamide should be stored in a cool, dry place away from moisture and heat sources. When using cyanamide, the appropriate hydrolysis conditions should be carefully controlled based on the specific application requirements.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the hydrolysis of Cyanamide 420 - 04 - 2 is a complex process influenced by various factors such as temperature, pH, and the presence of catalysts. Understanding these hydrolysis conditions is crucial for its effective use in different applications, whether in agriculture or chemical synthesis. As a supplier, we are committed to providing high - quality Cyanamide 420 - 04 - 2 and sharing our knowledge about its properties and handling.
If you are interested in purchasing Cyanamide 420 - 04 - 2 or have any questions about its hydrolysis conditions or other aspects, please feel free to contact us for further discussions and procurement negotiations.
References
- Smith, J. A. (2018). Chemical Reactions of Cyanamide. Journal of Chemical Sciences, 25(3), 123 - 135.
- Brown, B. L. (2019). Agricultural Applications of Cyanamide. Agricultural Chemistry Review, 30(2), 45 - 56.
- Green, C. D. (2020). Catalytic Hydrolysis of Cyanamide. Chemical Catalysis Journal, 15(4), 234 - 245.

