About HS Code 251200
This code encompasses lightweight, porous siliceous fossil meals like kieselguhr, tripolite, and diatomite, along with similar siliceous earths, whether calcined or not, characterized by an apparent specific gravity of 1 or less. These materials are primarily composed of the fossilized remains of diatoms, microscopic aquatic organisms. Their unique porous structure and abrasive properties make them invaluable as filter aids in various industries (beverages, chemicals), as mild abrasives in polishes, as absorbents, and as functional fillers in paints and plastics. Countries with significant food and beverage processing, chemical manufacturing, or agricultural sectors are major importers. Exporters are typically nations with large diatomite deposits, such as the USA, China, and Peru. Key trade considerations include purity, particle size distribution, porosity, and calcination status, which all impact their performance in specific applications.
Products Under This Code
Diatomaceous earth, Kieselguhr, Tripolite, Diatomite filter aid, Diatomite absorbent, Calcined diatomite, Flux-calcined diatomite
Real World Examples
EP Minerals (Celite, Kenite diatomite), Imerys (diatomite products), Dicalite Management Group (diatomite), JRS Silvateam (diatomite)
Common Misclassification
This code could be confused with other lightweight mineral fillers or absorbents, but the "fossil meal" and "siliceous" nature, along with specific gravity, are key differentiators.
Products Classified Under 2512.00
Industry
This code belongs to the Minerals & Fuels industry.
Trade Overview
The USA, China, and Peru are major producers, with widespread global demand from industries in Europe, North America, and Asia.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is HS code 251200?
HS code 251200 covers: Siliceous fossil meals (e.g. kieselguhr, tripolite and diatomite) and similar siliceous earths; whether or not calcined, of an apparent specific gravity of 1 or less. This code encompasses lightweight, porous siliceous fossil meals like kieselguhr, tripolite, and diatomite, along with similar siliceous earths, whether calcined or not, characterized by an apparent specific gravity of 1 or less. These materials are primarily composed of the fossilized remains of diatoms, microscopic aquatic organisms. Their unique porous structure and abrasive properties make them invaluable as filter aids in various industries (beverages, chemicals), as mild abrasives in polishes, as absorbents, and as functional fillers in paints and plastics. Countries with significant food and beverage processing, chemical manufacturing, or agricultural sectors are major importers. Exporters are typically nations with large diatomite deposits, such as the USA, China, and Peru. Key trade considerations include purity, particle size distribution, porosity, and calcination status, which all impact their performance in specific applications.
What products fall under HS code 251200?
Diatomaceous earth, Kieselguhr, Tripolite, Diatomite filter aid, Diatomite absorbent, Calcined diatomite, Flux-calcined diatomite
What are common misclassifications for HS code 251200?
This code could be confused with other lightweight mineral fillers or absorbents, but the "fossil meal" and "siliceous" nature, along with specific gravity, are key differentiators.
How is HS code 251200 structured?
HS code 251200 is a 6-digit subheading under the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (25) identify the chapter, digits 3-4 (12) identify the heading, and digits 5-6 (00) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.