HPLC Method for Separation of Urea and Thiourea on Zodiac HST S1 Column

Urea (CO(NH₂)₂) is a white crystalline compound commonly used as a high-nitrogen fertilizer. Beyond agriculture, it plays a vital role in the production of plastics, resins, adhesives, animal feed, and various industrial chemicals. Additionally, urea is valued in skincare formulations for its hydrating properties.

Thiourea ((NH₂)₂CS), structurally similar to urea but with sulfur in place of oxygen, is another white crystalline solid. It serves diverse roles in organic synthesis, silver-gelatin print toning, cosmetic formulations, and as a radioprotective agent in medical treatments. In agriculture, thiourea is used to enhance seed germination and promote plant flowering and fruiting.

Both urea and thiourea can be effectively retained, separated, and analyzed using a Zodiac HST S1 normal-phase mixed-mode column. The method employs a mobile phase of water and acetonitrile (MeCN) without buffer and allows for UV detection at 200 nm.