Melamine Fiber | Properties of Melamine Fiber | Manufacturing Process of Melamine Fiber | Applications of Melamine Fiber | Uses of Melamine Fiber

Melamine fiber is a manufactured fiber in which the fiber-forming substance is a synthetic polymer composed of at least 50% by weight of a cross-linked melamine polymer. Melamine fiber is a cost effective heat resistant fiber based on melamine chemistry, with a 400°F (200°C) continuous operating temperature. Melamine fibers are flame resistant, have outstanding heat/dimensional stability, and are self-extinguishing. EFT’s WF series of melamine fibers have a fiber length distribution tailored for use in wet-laid nonwovens. Typical fiber lengths are in the 1-12mm range, and they show excellent dispersion and formation in wet-laid processes. 

Flame Resistance of Melamine Fiber

Characteristics of Melamine Fiber 

• Chars without shrinking 
• Naturally flame retardant 
• Low thermal conductivity 
• Non-toxic / No VOC release
• White and dyeable 
• Flame resistance and low thermal conductivity 
• High heat dimensional stability 
• Processable on standard textile equipment

Typical Properties of Melamine Fiber

Measurement	Units	Typical Values
Color		Ivory white
Average Diameter	µm	15
Average Denier	g/9000m	2.4
Specific Gravity		1.4
Tensile Strength	ksi	36
Tenacity	g/den	2.0
Modulus	Msi g/den	1.0 55
Elongation at Break	%	11
Moisture Regain (23°C, 65% RH)	%	5
Shrinkage at 200°C (1hr exposure)	%
Limiting Oxygen Index	%	32
Maximum Continuous Operating Temperature	°C	200
Melting Temperature	°C	Does not melt or drip
Resistance to Mildew, Aging, Sunlight		Excellent
Resistance to Solvents, Alkalis		Excellent

Production Process of Melamine Fiber

The production process is proprietary. It is based on a unique melamine chemistry that results in a cross-linked, non-thermoplastic polymer of melamine units joined by methylene and dimethylene ether linkages. In the polymerization reaction, methylol derivatives of melamine react with each other to form a three-dimensional structure. This structure is the basis for the fiber’s heat stability, solvent resistance, and flame resistance.

Applications of Melamine Fiber

• Mattresses, Home Furnishings / Nonwovens
• (Compliant with 16CFR1633)
• Specialty flame resistant papers
• Firefighting apparel
• Electrical papers
• Transmission / friction papers
• Filtration media
• Engineered materials / Short-fiber composites
• Adhesives / Fillers
• Tire sealants
• Truck / Rail brakes

Besides Melamine fiber has Potential use which are given below :

Fire Blocking Fabrics: Aircraft seating, fire blockers for upholstered furniture in high-risk occupancies (e.g., to meet California TB 133 requirements)

Protective Clothing: Firefighters’ turnout gear, insulating thermal liners, knit hoods, molten metal splash apparel, heat resistant gloves.

Filter Media: High capacity, high efficiency, high temperature baghouse air filters.