Cyanamide

  Cyanamide is used in agriculture as a fertilizer and as a plant growth regulator by breaking dormancy in fruit plants (table grapes, kiwis, apples, pears) (dormancy breaking agent). The 50% aqueous solution is also used as a biocide (disinfectant), particularly in pig farming, as it is effective in killing salmonella and dysentery bacteria and controlling flies at all stages of development.

No plant protection products containing the active ingredient cyanamide are approved in the EU. Nevertheless, cyanamide may be produced in the EU for export. Thus, the active ingredient produced by BASF is still distributed on the Brazilian market. AlzChem also exports a pesticide containing this active ingredient in high quantities.

Safety instructions

Cyanamide is a contact poison that can exert its effects by absorption through the skin. Respiratory uptake is unlikely due to the hygroscopic nature and low vapor pressure of the substance. Absorption via the stomach and digestive tract occurs rapidly but incompletely. There are isolated case reports of the occurrence of acetaldehyde syndrome after skin contact with cyanamide-containing fertilizer and prior alcohol consumption.