About HS Code 280511
This HS code specifically covers elemental sodium, a highly reactive alkali metal. Despite its reactivity, sodium is a crucial commodity in various industrial processes. It is primarily used in the production of sodium compounds, such as sodium cyanide for gold extraction, and sodium peroxide. It also serves as a reducing agent in organic synthesis and in the manufacture of certain dyes and pharmaceuticals. Liquid sodium is employed as a coolant in some nuclear reactors due to its excellent thermal conductivity. Major importers are countries with significant chemical industries, mining operations (especially gold), and specialized manufacturing sectors, including the United States, Germany, and India. Exporters are typically countries with advanced chemical processing capabilities and access to raw materials like sodium chloride, such as China, the United States, and Germany. Trade in elemental sodium requires specialized handling and transport due to its extreme reactivity with water and air, necessitating inert atmosphere packaging.
Products Under This Code
Elemental sodium, Sodium metal ingots, Sodium metal sticks, Liquid sodium, Sodium for chemical synthesis, Sodium for gold extraction
Real World Examples
Sigma-Aldrich Sodium, Alfa Aesar Sodium, American Elements Sodium, BASF (uses sodium in production), Dow Chemical (uses sodium in production)
Common Misclassification
This code is for elemental sodium only. It is frequently confused with sodium compounds like sodium chloride (2501.00), sodium hydroxide (2815.1x), or sodium carbonate (2836.20), which are distinct chemical substances.
Products Classified Under 2805.11
Industry
This code belongs to the Chemicals industry.
Trade Overview
China, the United States, and Germany are key producers, while the United States, Germany, and India are major importers for chemical and industrial applications.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is HS code 280511?
HS code 280511 covers: Alkali or alkali-earth metals; sodium. This HS code specifically covers elemental sodium, a highly reactive alkali metal. Despite its reactivity, sodium is a crucial commodity in various industrial processes. It is primarily used in the production of sodium compounds, such as sodium cyanide for gold extraction, and sodium peroxide. It also serves as a reducing agent in organic synthesis and in the manufacture of certain dyes and pharmaceuticals. Liquid sodium is employed as a coolant in some nuclear reactors due to its excellent thermal conductivity. Major importers are countries with significant chemical industries, mining operations (especially gold), and specialized manufacturing sectors, including the United States, Germany, and India. Exporters are typically countries with advanced chemical processing capabilities and access to raw materials like sodium chloride, such as China, the United States, and Germany. Trade in elemental sodium requires specialized handling and transport due to its extreme reactivity with water and air, necessitating inert atmosphere packaging.
What products fall under HS code 280511?
Elemental sodium, Sodium metal ingots, Sodium metal sticks, Liquid sodium, Sodium for chemical synthesis, Sodium for gold extraction
What are common misclassifications for HS code 280511?
This code is for elemental sodium only. It is frequently confused with sodium compounds like sodium chloride (2501.00), sodium hydroxide (2815.1x), or sodium carbonate (2836.20), which are distinct chemical substances.
How is HS code 280511 structured?
HS code 280511 is a 6-digit subheading under the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (28) identify the chapter, digits 3-4 (05) identify the heading, and digits 5-6 (11) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.