Melamine Fiber

Commercial Melamine Fiber Production: Melamine fiber is produced by Basofil Fibers LLC, Enka, NC and marketed under the trade name, Basofil Fiber.

Current U.S. Melamine Fiber Producers: Basofil Fibers LLC

Definition for Melamine Fiber: 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. (Complete FTC Fiber Rules here.)

Basic Principles of Melamine Fiber Production: 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.

Melamine Fiber Characteristics

• White and dyeable
• Flame resistance and low thermal conductivity
• High heat dimensional stability
• Processable on standard textile equipment

Major Melamine Fiber Uses

• 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.