Melamine facts MELAMINE TO LIMIT EMISSIONS Wood panels are an important outlet for melamine. With formaldehyde, melamine reacts to form the basis for an (MF) adhesive that is used to press the panels. Formaldehyde is a natural substance, emitted by trees, plants and people, but breathing in too much can be unhealthy. This is why wood panels are subject to rules that restrict the free emission of formaldehyde. By using more melamine in the manufacture of wood panel, free formaldehyde is fixed in the panel and the emission levels become comparable to the natural emission values of trees and plants. Tips There are three classes of wood panels: E1, E2 and E3 (according to European standard EN 120). Class E1 panels release the least amount of free formaldehyde and there fore have the lowest emission levels. Other quality marks include KOMO in the Netherlands or TÜV. Be sure to ventilate and air out a new building before moving in, but also after having new furniture delivered or after using paint or adhesives in the home. Never smoke inside the home; tobacco smoke contains a large amount of formaldehyde. ? ?? 22 melamine RECYCLING WOOD PANELS In the article on pages 18-21, designer René Holten questions whether wood panels can be recycled. Particle board is by far the most common type of wood panel produced in Europe. Some 30% of a particle board consists of recycled wood, including also post-consumer wood panels. 90% of Italian particle board consists of recycled wood, while Greek particle board has 0%. These figures originate from the European Panel Federation (EPF), the association of wood panel producers. They aim to play a serious role in the circular economy, not least because they wish to ensure the survival of their business. The wood shortage means that they must focus increasingly on recycling. Safety of melamine ? The product melamine – a white powder – is an industrial chemical that is classified as safe to work with, use and store. Once the powder has been used to create an end product, it no longer exists in its original physical form. In most applications, melamine first reacts with other raw materials and turns into a liquid resin. It then “crosslinks” under pressure and heat to form a new product: a solid adhesive, resin or plastic. The name “melamine” has thus become synonymous with such products as wood panels and tableware. As consumers, we do not have any contact with the original chemical substance melamine.
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