melamin

Melamin, also spelled melamine in English, is an organic compound with the chemical formula C3H6N6 and the systematic name 2,4,6-triamino-1,3,5-triazine. It is a white, crystalline solid rich in nitrogen and relatively stable under ordinary conditions. Melamin belongs to the triazine family and features three exocyclic amino groups.

Industrial production of melamin is on a large scale and centers on the condensation of urea. In the process, urea is heated under controlled conditions to promote cyclization and formation of the melamine ring, with carbon dioxide and ammonia as byproducts. The crude product is purified by filtration and crystallization to yield a usable solid.

Uses of melamin are dominated by its role as a precursor to melamine-formaldehyde resins, a family of thermosetting polymers used in laminates, decorative surfaces, adhesives, coatings, and fire-retardant materials. These resins are valued for hardness, heat resistance, and chemical stability. Melamin is also used in some consumer products such as certain dinnerware and coatings, though there are regulatory considerations about the potential migration of melamin from containers into food, especially under high heat or acidic conditions. It also serves as a building block for other chemicals and specialty polymers.

Safety and regulation: Melamin has relatively low acute toxicity but can pose health concerns at high exposures, particularly for kidneys when ingested in large amounts. Contamination or migration into food has led to regulatory actions in many jurisdictions; past incidents of melamine adulteration intensified monitoring and limits on melamin in foods and consumer goods.

History: Melamin was first prepared in the 19th century and later developed into a major industrial chemical, notably for melamine-formaldehyde resins in the mid- to late 20th century.