Thiourea
Thiocarbamide, Sulfourea, (NH2)2CS.
- CAS
- 62-56-6
- EC
- 200-543-5
- Sectors
- Mining & Metals, Textiles, Leather & Paper, Electronics & Solar PV
Thiourea (CAS 62-56-6) is an organosulfur compound supplied as a white to almost white crystalline solid in Technical Grade, known for forming stable complexes with metal ions and used for gold and silver leaching, textile dye stripping, and electroplating baths. It is an organosulfur compound that is soluble in water and functions as a building block in chemical synthesis.
With a standard 99% Purity, it is widely used as a leaching agent for gold and silver extraction, offering an alternative to traditional cyanide processes. Its Reducing Properties are also leveraged in the textile industry for stripping dyes.
In the electronics industry, it is utilized in the production of photosensitive materials and electroplating baths. It serves as an essential Specialty Chemical in the manufacture of resins, flame retardants, and pharmaceutical intermediates.
Typical Properties
| Molecular formula | CH4N2S |
|---|---|
| Molecular weight | 76.12 g/mol |
| Appearance | Thiourea consists of colorless, lustrous crystals or powder with a bitter taste. |
| Form | Crystals |
| Color | White to almost white |
| Odor | Odorless |
| Melting point | 176-178 °C |
| Boiling point | 150-160 °C |
| Density | 1.405 g/cm³ |
| Water solubility | 13.6 g/100 mL (20 °C) |
| pH | 6-8 (50g/l, H2O, 20°C) |
| GHS signal word | Warning · Irritant / harmful, Health hazard, Environmental hazard |
| HS code | 29309070 |
| Grades available | Technical Grade |
Typical literature values for identification; lot-specific results are stated on the certificate of analysis (COA) and the safety data sheet (SDS) that accompany every delivery.
Thiourea
Applications
- Metal Leaching: Effective alternative to cyanide for the extraction of gold and silver from ores and electronic waste.
- Textile Processing: Used as a reducing agent in dyeing processes and for the manufacture of wash-and-wear textile finishes.
- Electroplating: Component in plating baths to improve the brightness and adhesion of metal coatings on electronic parts.
Safety & Risks
Classified as Carc. 2, Repr. 2, and Acute Tox. 4 (Oral). Suspected of causing cancer; use Respirator with Dust Filter and Double Gloves.
Packaging
25 kg Woven Bags with PE liner, 500 kg/1000 kg Jumbo Bags.