DAP (18-46-0) vs. MAP Fertilizer: The Phosphorus Solution

In global broadacre agriculture, DAP (Diammonium Phosphate) is the gold standard for high-phosphorus nutrition. Delivering a powerful 18-46-0 nutrient profile, it provides the essential ATP energy required for root development and crop establishment. WorldwideTradeX manages the global supply of fully water-soluble DAP for industrial agriculture and bulk blending plants.

Nutrient Profile: 18-46-0 Efficiency
Solubility: The P2O5 Availability Metric
Application: Soil pH and Ammonia Risk
Technical Specifications Table

1. Nutrient Profile: 18-46-0 Performance

DAP is a chemically stable, complex fertilizer.

Nitrogen (18%): Immediate ammoniacal nitrogen for early vegetative growth.

Phosphorus (46%): Concentrated P2O5 for root establishment and energy transfer.

Granulometry: Standard 2.0 - 4.0mm granules, perfectly matched for precision spreading and blending with Urea and MOP.

2. Critical Performance: Water Solubility

Plants can only uptake phosphorus that is dissolved in soil solution.

Minimum Threshold: We guarantee a minimum 90-95% water solubility of the total P2O5 content.

Direct Impact: High solubility ensures that applied phosphorus is available to seedlings immediately upon rains/irrigation, rather than remaining locked in the soil.

3. Agricultural Application: Soil Interaction

Strategic use of DAP requires understanding soil chemistry.

pH Interaction: DAP temporarily increases the pH around the granule. In acidic soils, this aids P availability; in highly alkaline soils, MAP may be preferred to avoid ammonia toxicity.

Hardness: Our DAP is engineered for a crushing strength > 3.0 kgf, preventing dust creation and ensuring even distribution via mechanical spreaders.

4. Technical Specifications: DAP Hub

Nutrient / Property	Specification (DAP)	Typical WTX Analysis
Total Nitrogen (N)	18.0% Min	18.1%
Total P2O5	46.0% Min	46.3%
Water Soluble P	90% of Total P Min	94.5%
Moisture	1.5% Max	1.0%
Size (2-4mm)	90% Min	96%

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is DAP fertilizer and how does it differ from MAP?

DAP (Diammonium Phosphate) contains 18% nitrogen and 46% P2O5 (phosphate). MAP (Monoammonium Phosphate) contains 11% nitrogen and 52% P2O5. DAP is more widely traded globally; MAP has higher phosphate content and is preferred in high-phosphate-demand crops. Both are granular and water-soluble.

What BPL grade is required for DAP/MAP production?

DAP and MAP production requires rock phosphate with minimum 68–72% BPL (Bone Phosphate of Lime, equivalent to ~30–33% P2O5). Lower BPL grades require more acid per unit of product, increasing production costs. High-BPL rock from Morocco (OCP) and Jordan is the global benchmark.

How is DAP priced in international markets?

DAP is priced against the Tampa CFR (USA) and India CFR benchmarks, published by Argus and Platts. Prices are influenced by ammonia and sulphuric acid input costs, Chinese export volumes, and seasonal agricultural demand. India is the world's largest DAP importer.

What are standard Incoterms and payment terms for DAP bulk shipments?

CFR (Cost and Freight) to destination port is standard for large volumes. Payment is typically irrevocable LC for first transactions. Minimum bulk vessel quantities are 5,000–25,000 MT. SGS inspection at loading port for weight and quality is mandatory.