Melamine consists of three carbon atoms, six hydrogen atoms and six nitrogen atoms.
Free melamine – what it is and where it is used
Free melamine is an odourless chemical substance that appears as a white powder and is classified as a high‑production‑volume (HPV) chemical. When free melamine undergoes chemical conversion or further processing, it forms, for example, melamine resins. These are used in furniture varnishes or as adhesives for wood‑based materials such as chipboard. Owing to their impact resistance, melamine resins are also frequently employed in the manufacture of camping and children’s tableware. Panels made of melamine resin foam absorb sound waves and are therefore used, for instance, on the walls or ceilings of recording studios, cinemas, offices and classrooms.
Free melamine and its classification as a Substance of Very High Concern (SVHC)
Like all HPV chemicals, this substance is subject to additional regulatory oversight due to its potential for high exposure and environmental impact. It is suspected that free melamine (though not its chemically converted or processed variants) may impair fertility and cause cancer if ingested. Based on toxicological studies, the German Federal Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (Bundesanstalt für Arbeitsschutz und Arbeitsmedizin) proposed classifying free melamine as a chemical substance with hazardous properties. The European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) accepted this proposal, and since 17 January 2023 free melamine has been listed as an SVHC (Substance of Very High Concern). Accordingly, it must be identified whenever it is present at a concentration greater than 0.1 per cent by mass.
Free melamine and its use in passive fire protection
In passive fire protection, intumescent materials are frequently employed which, through the action of a blowing agent, expand their volume many times over when exposed to heat, thereby preventing the passage of fire and smoke. Free melamine – and the chemically converted melamine used by us, which is not classified as hazardous – belong to these so‑called blowing agents. Under the influence of heat, they release nitrogen, causing the carbon matrix in intumescent coating systems to expand. The addition of this substance produces particularly robust, non‑combustible crusts in which no melamine remains once the reaction is complete, as it is fully consumed in the flame.
Exposure – explained simply
In chemistry, exposure refers to contact between an organism – or particular parts of it (such as tissues, cells or molecules) – and external influences such as chemical substances. This contact may occur through inhalation (e.g. gases or dust), skin contact (e.g. liquids or powders), ingestion (e.g. swallowed substances) or environmental pathways (e.g. chemicals in water or soil). In short, exposure means being in contact with, or subjected to, a chemical substance.
Our path towards a melamine-free portfolio
As part of #TeamLifeProtectors, we have always been committed to sustainable solutions that ensure safety and protection. For this reason, KuhnOdice first informed all customers about the inclusion of free melamine on the SVHC list and identified and labelled the affected products. In addition, we have proactively undertaken the development of new melamine‑free formulations, whether they previously contained free melamine or chemically converted melamine not listed as an SVHC. Consequently, we can already offer high‑performance fire‑protection products that are completely melamine‑free – several years ahead of the potential melamine ban in Europe, expected to take effect in 2030.
PYRO-SAFE® DG NG is the first fire‑protection coating in the portfolio of KuhnOdice to be supplied with a melamine‑free formulation – and it represents only the beginning. We aim to offer a completely melamine‑free product range by the end of 2027.
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