Comparative evolved gas analyses on thermal degradation of thiourea by coupled TG-FTIR and TG/DTA-MS instruments

Identification and monitoring of gaseous species released during thermal decomposition of pure thiourea, (NH2)(2)C=S in argon, helium and air atmosphere have been carried out by both online coupled TG-FTIR and simultaneous TG/DTA-MS apparatuses manufactured by TA Instruments (USA). In both inert atmospheres and air between 182 and 240 degrees C the main gaseous products of thiourea are ammonia (NH3) and carbon disulfide (CS2), whilst in flowing air sulphur dioxide (SO2) and carbonyl sulphide (COS) as gas phase oxidation products of CS2, and in addition hydrogen cyanide (HCN) also occur, which are detected by both FTIR spectroscopic and mass spectrometric EGA methods. Some evolution of isothiocyanic acid (HNCS) and cyanamide (NH2CN) vapours have also observed mainly by EGA-FTIR, and largely depending on the experimental conditions. HNCS is hardly identified by mass spectrometry. Any evolution of H2S has not been detected at any stage of thiourea degradation by either of the two methods. The exothermic heat effect of gas phase oxidation process of CS2 partially compensates the endothermicity of the corresponding degradation step producing CS2.