Hexamethylenetetramine
Hexamethylenetetramine (also known as Hexamine or Methenamine) is an organic heterocyclic compound widely used in industrial, pharmaceutical, and chemical applications. It is a white crystalline powder formed by the reaction of formaldehyde and ammonia.
Key Properties:
Chemical formula: C₆H₁₂N₄
Highly stable, non-hygroscopic, and soluble in water and alcohol
Exhibits antibacterial and preservative properties
Major Uses:
Pharmaceuticals: Used as a urinary antiseptic (methenamine salts) to prevent bacterial infections.
Resins & Plastics: A key raw material in producing phenol-formaldehyde resins, molding compounds, and adhesives.
Rubber Industry: Acts as a vulcanization accelerator.
Explosives: Component in the production of RDX (Research Department Explosive).
Fuel Tablets: Used in solid fuel tablets for camping stoves due to its clean-burning nature.
Textile & Paper: Used in finishing treatments and as a preservative.
Advantages:
High thermal stability
Versatile chemical reactivity
Long shelf life