What is the odor of 30% Cyanamide?

Jul 10, 2025|

As a supplier of 30% Cyanamide, I often encounter inquiries about its various properties, and one question that comes up quite frequently is, "What is the odor of 30% Cyanamide?" In this blog post, I will delve into the details of the odor of 30% Cyanamide, its characteristics, and the factors that may influence it.

Understanding 30% Cyanamide

Cyanamide is an important chemical compound with a wide range of applications in industries such as agriculture, pharmaceuticals, and chemical synthesis. 30% Cyanamide refers to a solution where cyanamide is present at a concentration of 30% by weight, typically dissolved in water. This form of cyanamide is commonly used due to its relative stability and ease of handling compared to pure cyanamide.

The Odor of 30% Cyanamide

The odor of 30% Cyanamide can be described as pungent and somewhat fishy. This characteristic smell is primarily due to the chemical nature of cyanamide itself. Cyanamide contains a nitrile functional group (-C≡N), which can contribute to its distinct odor. The pungency of the odor can be quite strong, and it may be detectable even at low concentrations.

However, it's important to note that the perception of odor can vary from person to person. Some individuals may be more sensitive to the smell of 30% Cyanamide than others, and factors such as personal olfactory sensitivity, previous exposure to similar chemicals, and environmental conditions can all influence how the odor is perceived.

Factors Affecting the Odor

Several factors can affect the odor of 30% Cyanamide. One of the most significant factors is the concentration of cyanamide in the solution. As the concentration increases, the odor is likely to become more intense. In the case of 30% Cyanamide, the relatively high concentration contributes to its strong and noticeable smell.

Another factor is the purity of the cyanamide. Impurities in the solution can alter the odor and may even introduce additional unpleasant smells. High - quality 30% Cyanamide solutions, which are carefully manufactured and purified, tend to have a more consistent and characteristic odor.

Environmental conditions also play a role. Higher temperatures can increase the volatility of the cyanamide, causing more of the compound to vaporize and making the odor more prominent. In addition, factors such as humidity and air circulation can affect how the odor is dispersed and perceived. For example, in a poorly ventilated area, the odor of 30% Cyanamide may seem more overwhelming compared to a well - ventilated space.

50% CyanamideGranular Calcium cyanamide

Safety Considerations Related to the Odor

The strong odor of 30% Cyanamide serves as a warning sign, indicating the presence of the chemical. Cyanamide is a toxic substance, and inhalation of its vapors can be harmful to human health. Prolonged or high - level exposure to the odor may be associated with symptoms such as irritation of the respiratory tract, eyes, and skin.

When handling 30% Cyanamide, it is essential to take appropriate safety precautions. This includes wearing personal protective equipment such as gloves, goggles, and a respirator to prevent inhalation of the vapors. Adequate ventilation should be ensured in the area where the chemical is being used or stored to minimize the concentration of the vapors in the air.

Applications and the Role of Odor

Despite its strong odor, 30% Cyanamide has numerous valuable applications. In the agricultural industry, it is used as a plant growth regulator and a soil nitrogen stabilizer. The pungent odor may not be a significant drawback in this context, as the chemical is typically applied to fields where the odor can dissipate relatively quickly.

In the pharmaceutical and chemical synthesis industries, 30% Cyanamide is used as a building block for the synthesis of various compounds. Here, the odor is managed through proper handling and ventilation systems in the manufacturing facilities.

Comparison with Related Compounds

It can be interesting to compare the odor of 30% Cyanamide with related compounds. For example, Granular Calcium Cyanamide has a different odor profile. Granular calcium cyanamide is a solid form of cyanamide, and its odor is less pungent compared to the 30% Cyanamide solution. This is because the solid form has lower volatility, and the cyanamide is more tightly bound within the calcium cyanamide structure.

Another related compound is 50% Cyanamide. As expected, due to its higher concentration, 50% Cyanamide has a more intense odor than 30% Cyanamide. The increased concentration leads to a greater amount of cyanamide vaporizing into the air, making the smell more pronounced.

Other Chemicals in Our Portfolio

In addition to 30% Cyanamide, we also supply Polyvinyl Chloride 9002 - 86 - 2. Polyvinyl chloride has a very different odor compared to 30% Cyanamide. It has a more plastic - like smell, which is characteristic of many polymer materials. This difference in odor reflects the distinct chemical structures and properties of these two compounds.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the odor of 30% Cyanamide is pungent and fishy, primarily due to the presence of the nitrile functional group in cyanamide. The odor can be affected by factors such as concentration, purity, and environmental conditions. While the strong odor may pose some challenges in terms of handling and safety, 30% Cyanamide remains a valuable chemical with a wide range of applications.

If you are interested in purchasing 30% Cyanamide or any of our other chemical products, we encourage you to contact us for more information and to discuss your specific requirements. Our team of experts is ready to assist you in finding the right chemical solutions for your needs.

References

  • Handbook of Chemical Compounds: Cyanamide and Related Substances
  • Agricultural Chemicals: Applications and Safety Guidelines
  • Chemical Synthesis Manual: Use of Cyanamide in Organic Reactions
Send Inquiry