About HS Code 281520
Potassium hydroxide (KOH), commonly known as caustic potash, is a strong alkaline chemical traded in both solid (flakes, pellets) and aqueous solution forms, though this code covers both. It is a versatile compound with significant industrial importance, particularly in the production of potassium carbonates, phosphates, and other potassium salts. It is also widely used in the manufacturing of liquid soaps and detergents, as an electrolyte in alkaline batteries, in agricultural fertilizers, and in various chemical synthesis processes. Importers and exporters include chemical manufacturers, battery producers, agricultural chemical companies, and specialty soap manufacturers. Due to its highly corrosive nature, international trade in potassium hydroxide is subject to stringent dangerous goods regulations for packaging, labeling, and transportation, whether in solid or liquid form, to ensure safety and environmental protection. Its demand is driven by the global market for specialty chemicals and consumer goods.
Products Under This Code
Caustic potash, Potassium hydroxide flakes, KOH pellets, Liquid KOH, Potassium lye, Alkaline battery electrolyte
Real World Examples
Vynova Potassium Hydroxide, Occidental Chemical KOH, Tessenderlo Group Caustic Potash, Sigma-Aldrich Potassium Hydroxide
Common Misclassification
This code specifically covers potassium hydroxide, distinguishing it from sodium hydroxide (2815.11 and 2815.12) due to its different cation and distinct applications, despite both being strong bases.
Products Classified Under 2815.20
Industry
This code belongs to the Chemicals industry.
Trade Overview
China, Germany, the United States, and Belgium are key players in the global trade of potassium hydroxide, serving diverse industrial and consumer markets.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is HS code 281520?
HS code 281520 covers: Potassium hydroxide (caustic potash). Potassium hydroxide (KOH), commonly known as caustic potash, is a strong alkaline chemical traded in both solid (flakes, pellets) and aqueous solution forms, though this code covers both. It is a versatile compound with significant industrial importance, particularly in the production of potassium carbonates, phosphates, and other potassium salts. It is also widely used in the manufacturing of liquid soaps and detergents, as an electrolyte in alkaline batteries, in agricultural fertilizers, and in various chemical synthesis processes. Importers and exporters include chemical manufacturers, battery producers, agricultural chemical companies, and specialty soap manufacturers. Due to its highly corrosive nature, international trade in potassium hydroxide is subject to stringent dangerous goods regulations for packaging, labeling, and transportation, whether in solid or liquid form, to ensure safety and environmental protection. Its demand is driven by the global market for specialty chemicals and consumer goods.
What products fall under HS code 281520?
Caustic potash, Potassium hydroxide flakes, KOH pellets, Liquid KOH, Potassium lye, Alkaline battery electrolyte
What are common misclassifications for HS code 281520?
This code specifically covers potassium hydroxide, distinguishing it from sodium hydroxide (2815.11 and 2815.12) due to its different cation and distinct applications, despite both being strong bases.
How is HS code 281520 structured?
HS code 281520 is a 6-digit subheading under the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (28) identify the chapter, digits 3-4 (15) identify the heading, and digits 5-6 (20) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.