this patent describes technology for generating ammonia from urea . the method is based on the hydrolysis of an aqueous solution of urea and / or biuret by heating under pressure to form a mixture of ammonia , carbon dioxide and water . the gas mixtures produced are useful for supplying ammonia at controlled pressure and rate of flow for many industrial applications without the risks and hazards associated with the transportation and on - site storage of ammonia , thereby providing a significant safety advantage over present industrial practice .