Melamine in the environment: a critical review of available information

Abstract Large numbers of chemicals and products thereof are used in our daily routine to ensure a good quality life. Substances may even serve as raw materials produce life articles including electronic hardware, green houses, cars etc. Melamine is for great variety products, such wood panels, paints, coatings, foam seating’s mattresses (as flame retardant), automotive brake tubes hose. Based on the latest discussions, melamine has been concluded European Union be classified “carcinogenic humans” (Carc. 2, H351) “may cause damage organs (urinary tract) through prolonged or repeated exposure” (STOT RE H737). In addition, there self-classification industry suspect Repr. CAT2. Furthermore, substance considered potential groundwater contaminant, due low log octanol carbon coefficient (K oc ). However, underlying data require further evaluation. Therefore, review available information related presence (M) cyromazine (CM, which M transformation product) surface, ground drinking water was conducted were critically analysed plausibility. Available monitoring scarce investigated Netherlands Germany mainly. Measurements catchment area river Rhine Maas revealed, that both substances (M, CM) not ubiquitously found these countries. All all, it can conclusive, thus requiring investigation before clear relationship between emission occurrence environment drawn.