HS Code Subheading

Complex cyanides

2837.20 Subheading
Section VI — Products of the chemical or allied industries

About HS Code 283720

This HS code specifically covers complex cyanides, which are distinct from simple cyanides due to their coordination compound structure where the cyanide ion acts as a ligand. Key examples include ferrocyanides (e.g., potassium ferrocyanide, sodium ferrocyanide) and ferricyanides (e.g., potassium ferricyanide). Unlike simple cyanides, these compounds are generally much less toxic and have a broader range of industrial applications. Ferrocyanides are widely used as anti-caking agents in road salt and table salt, as food additives (E535, E536), in the production of pigments like Prussian blue, and in electroplating. Ferricyanides are used in photography, blueprinting, and as mild oxidizing agents in organic synthesis. The trade in complex cyanides involves chemical manufacturers, food ingredient suppliers, and specialized industrial users. Importers are often food processing companies, pigment manufacturers, or photographic chemical suppliers. Exporters are typically chemical producers with advanced synthesis capabilities. While less hazardous than simple cyanides, proper handling and quality control are still important, especially for food-grade applications.

Products Under This Code

Potassium ferrocyanide, Sodium ferrocyanide, Potassium ferricyanide, Ammonium ferrocyanide, Prussian blue pigment (as a complex cyanide derivative), Ferric ferrocyanide

Real World Examples

Sigma-Aldrich Potassium Ferrocyanide, BASF Potassium Ferricyanide, Merck Sodium Ferrocyanide

Common Misclassification

This code is often confused with simple cyanides (283711, 283719) due to the "cyanide" in the name, but their chemical structure and toxicity profiles are vastly different. It's crucial to distinguish between simple ionic cyanides and these coordination complexes.

Products Classified Under 2837.20

Industry

This code belongs to the Chemicals industry.

Trade Overview

China, Germany, and the USA are prominent in the trade of complex cyanides, driven by their extensive chemical, food, and pigment industries.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is HS code 283720?

HS code 283720 covers: Complex cyanides. This HS code specifically covers complex cyanides, which are distinct from simple cyanides due to their coordination compound structure where the cyanide ion acts as a ligand. Key examples include ferrocyanides (e.g., potassium ferrocyanide, sodium ferrocyanide) and ferricyanides (e.g., potassium ferricyanide). Unlike simple cyanides, these compounds are generally much less toxic and have a broader range of industrial applications. Ferrocyanides are widely used as anti-caking agents in road salt and table salt, as food additives (E535, E536), in the production of pigments like Prussian blue, and in electroplating. Ferricyanides are used in photography, blueprinting, and as mild oxidizing agents in organic synthesis. The trade in complex cyanides involves chemical manufacturers, food ingredient suppliers, and specialized industrial users. Importers are often food processing companies, pigment manufacturers, or photographic chemical suppliers. Exporters are typically chemical producers with advanced synthesis capabilities. While less hazardous than simple cyanides, proper handling and quality control are still important, especially for food-grade applications.

What products fall under HS code 283720?

Potassium ferrocyanide, Sodium ferrocyanide, Potassium ferricyanide, Ammonium ferrocyanide, Prussian blue pigment (as a complex cyanide derivative), Ferric ferrocyanide

What are common misclassifications for HS code 283720?

This code is often confused with simple cyanides (283711, 283719) due to the "cyanide" in the name, but their chemical structure and toxicity profiles are vastly different. It's crucial to distinguish between simple ionic cyanides and these coordination complexes.

How is HS code 283720 structured?

HS code 283720 is a 6-digit subheading under the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (28) identify the chapter, digits 3-4 (37) identify the heading, and digits 5-6 (20) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.