What percentage of the total nitrogen in urea can be lost within a week due to volatilization?

Urea is a commonly used nitrogen fertilizer, and when applied to soil, it undergoes a transformation into ammonium carbonate, a process that can lead to the loss of nitrogen through volatilization. Volatilization refers to the conversion of a substance into a vapor or gas, and for urea, this means that ammonia gas can be released into the atmosphere, resulting in nitrogen loss.

Research indicates that under certain conditions, particularly when urea is surface-applied to warm, dry, and alkaline soils, a significant portion of nitrogen can be lost rapidly. It is understood that up to 30% of the total nitrogen in urea can be lost within the first week of application, particularly if conditions favor volatilization.

This understanding emphasizes the importance of timing and method of application for urea, as inadequate incorporation into the soil can lead to substantial nitrogen loss, affecting both crop nutrient availability and environmental quality. Therefore, being aware of the potential nitrogen loss through volatilization allows farmers and agricultural managers to implement strategies to minimize loss and enhance nutrient efficiency.