Melamiini

Melamine, or melamiini in Estonian, is an organic compound with the formula C3H6N6. It is a 1,3,5-triazine derivative bearing three amino groups at the 2, 4, and 6 positions. The substance is a white crystalline solid with high thermal stability, melting around 353°C and decomposing at elevated temperatures. It is poorly soluble in water at room temperature.

Industrial production is from urea, conducted at high temperature to promote dehydration, condensation, and cyclotrimerization to melamine, with ammonia and water as by-products. The process operates in large plants worldwide, led by producers in China, Europe, and North America.

Melamine is mainly used to manufacture melamine-formaldehyde resins, which are employed in laminates, coatings, adhesives, and molded plastics. These resins form durable laminates for countertops and other applications. Melamine is also used in flame-retardant formulations and in specialty papers. Food-contact uses are limited due to safety concerns, and migrated levels are regulated in many jurisdictions.

Safety and regulation: melamine has relatively low acute toxicity, but high or chronic exposure can cause kidney damage in humans. The 2008 milk adulteration incidents highlighted risks associated with contamination of food products. Regulatory bodies set limits on melamine in foods and in products intended for contact with food. In non-food applications, melamine resins are widely used under appropriate safety standards.