High-Purity Solvents, Polyurethane (PU) and Resin

Melamine

Melamine (CAS: 108-78-1), chemically identified as 1,3,5-triazine-2,4,6-triamine, is a nitrogen-rich organic base and a trimer of cyanamide. It is characterized by its white crystalline appearance and an exceptionally high nitrogen content of approximately 66% by mass. Industrially, melamine is primarily synthesized through the catalytic thermal decomposition of urea. Its chemical profile is dominated by its ability to undergo polycondensation with formaldehyde to create melamine-formaldehyde (MF) resins. These thermosetting resins are renowned for their mechanical strength, thermal stability, and resistance to chemical degradation. Beyond resin production, melamine’s high nitrogen density makes it a critical component in fire-retardant technologies, as it releases nitrogen gas upon decomposition, effectively diluting oxygen in the combustion zone. While it is a stable and versatile industrial intermediate, its use is strictly regulated in food-related applications to ensure consumer safety, maintaining its status as a cornerstone of the global polymer and coatings industries.

Attributes

Key Features and Benefits

Superior Thermal Stability: Maintains structural integrity under significant heat, making it suitable for high-temperature industrial environments.
Inherent Flame Retardancy: Acts as a nitrogen-based flame retardant; it promotes char formation and releases non-combustible gases to suppress fire.
Exceptional Surface Hardness: When polymerized, it produces surfaces with high resistance to scratching, impact, and abrasion.
Chemical and Solvent Resistance: Highly resistant to fats, oils, organic solvents, and mild alkalis, ensuring longevity in harsh environments.
Moisture Resistance: MF resins provide excellent water resistance, which is vital for outdoor or high-humidity wood-bonding applications.
Low Volatility: Its stable crystalline structure ensures minimal off-gassing in solid formulations.

Specifications

Technical Highlights

Molecular Formula: C₃H₆N₆
Molecular Weight: 126.12 g/mol
Physical State: Fine, white monoclinic crystals or powder.
Melting Point: Approximately 345°C (sublimes and decomposes at this temperature).
Solubility: Slightly soluble in water (3.1 g/L at 20°C); solubility increases exponentially with water temperature.
Nitrogen Content: ~66.6% by weight, providing high efficiency for nitrogen-evolving applications.
Basicity: Functions as a weak base, capable of forming salts with various organic and inorganic acids.
Synthesis Route: Large-scale production involves the conversion of molten urea at pressures of 50–100 bar or through low-pressure catalytic processes.

Download Technical Data Sheet (TDS)

Practical industry uses

Applications

High-Pressure Laminates (HPL): Used extensively in the manufacture of decorative surfaces for furniture, countertops, and flooring (e.g., Formica).
Wood Adhesives: Essential for producing moisture-resistant plywood, particleboard, and medium-density fiberboard (MDF).
Molding Compounds: Synthesis of heat-resistant and durable dinnerware, kitchen utensils, and electrical components.
Surface Coatings: Utilized in automotive clearcoats and industrial finishes to enhance UV resistance and gloss retention.
Flame Retardants: Incorporated into flexible polyurethane foams (furniture) and textile treatments to improve fire safety ratings.
Concrete Superplasticizers: Sulfonated melamine-formaldehyde (SMF) is used as a water reducer to improve the workability and strength of high-performance concrete.