HS Code 3815

Catalysts and Reaction Initiators

HS code 3815 covers reaction initiators, accelerators, and catalytic preparations used in industrial chemistry, excluding those specifically classified as preci

4-digit Section VIFCL Hazmat 5.2

HS Code 3815 — Catalysts and Reaction Initiators

This category covers chemical substances used to start or speed up chemical reactions without being consumed themselves. These products are essential in industrial manufacturing, particularly in polymer production and petroleum refining.

What's included

  • Supported catalysts
  • Peroxides used as initiators
  • Ziegler-Natta catalysts
  • Organic cobalt accelerators

What's excluded

  • Spent catalysts → use 3824 (Spent catalysts for metal recovery are classified by specific composition or as waste.)
  • Precious metal catalysts → use 7115 (Catalysts consisting solely of precious metals on a support are in Chapter 71.)

Common examples

  • Polymerisation initiators
  • Nickel-based hydrogenation catalysts
  • Vanadium pentoxide catalysts
  • Rubber vulcanisation accelerators

Frequently asked questions

What determines the sub-classification of 3815?

Classification depends primarily on whether the catalyst has a precious metal or a specific metal compound as its active substance.

Trade & shipping notes

  • Typical duty range: 0% - 6.5%
  • Documentation: Requires a Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) and technical specification sheet for precise chemical identification.
  • Typical shipping mode: FCL
  • Top exporters: Germany, United States, China, Japan
  • Top importers: China, India, South Korea, Brazil

Key takeaway

Classification hinges on the active metal and the intended industrial chemical process.

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