Melamine

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Melamine

Melamine (/ˈmɛləmiːn/; also known as tripolycyanamide or cyanuramide) is an organic compound with the formula C3H6N6. This white solid is a trimer of cyanamide, with a 1,3,5-triazine skeleton.

Etymology

The word "melamine" was derived from the German word "melamin". This was a combination of the words "melam", a derivative of ammonium thiocyanate, and "amine".

History

Melamine was first synthesized by the German chemist Justus von Liebig in 1834. In early production, melamine was extracted from urine. By the early 20th century, it was manufactured by heating dicyandiamide under pressure.

Uses

Melamine is widely used in plastics, adhesives, countertops, dishware, whiteboards, and flame retardants. It is also used in the production of melamine resins, an important component in laminate flooring and commercial filters.

Health Effects

Exposure to melamine may lead to reproductive damage, or bladder or kidney stones, which can lead to bladder cancer. A melamine controversy arose in 2007, when it was found in wheat gluten and rice protein concentrate exported from China and used in pet food.

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