Melamine is an organic compound with the formula C3H6N6. It is a white solid that contains 67% nitrogen by mass and is a trimer of cyanamide, with a 1,3,5-triazine skeleton. Melamine is used in a variety of industrial and commercial applications, including:
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Melamine dinnerware: Melamine is used to produce strong plastic dinnerware, laminates, and glues. It is durable and heat-resistant, making it perfect for producing plates, cups, bowls, utensils, and other tableware. However, it is not microwave-safe.
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Melamine resins: Melamine is combined with formaldehyde and other agents to produce melamine resins, which are durable thermosetting plastics used in high-pressure decorative laminates such as Formica, laminate flooring, and dry erase boards.
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Melamine foam: Melamine foam is used as insulation, soundproofing material, and in polymeric cleaning products, such as Magic Eraser.
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Pigment Yellow 150: Melamine is one of the major components in Pigment Yellow 150, a colorant in inks and plastics.
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Melamine polysulfonate: Melamine is used in the fabrication of melamine polysulfonate, which is used as a superplasticizer for making high-resistance concrete.
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Sulfonated melamine formaldehyde (SMF): SMF is a polymer used as a cement admixture to reduce the water content in concrete while increasing the fluidity and the workability of the mix during handling and pouring.
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Manufactured wood: Melamine is used to produce manufactured wood, which is similar to particle board but is exceptionally stronger and made using a different process.
Melamine is considered safe for serving and eating food, but food shouldn’t be microwaved in dishes that contain this chemical. There is a low risk of melamine leaking into food from serving containers, and most of it is used up in the manufacturing process. However, there have been two widespread events that highlight the risk of melamine toxicity. In 2007, pet food that was manufactured in China and distributed in North America was contaminated with this chemical, causing the deaths of over 1000 household pets. In 2008, infant formula was contaminated with melamine, and children exposed to the formula developed kidney stones, and 6 children died.
