HS Code Subheading

Carbides; of silicon, whether or not chemically defined

2849.20 Subheading
Section VI — Products of the chemical or allied industries

About HS Code 284920

Silicon carbide (SiC), whether chemically defined or not, is classified under this HS code. This advanced ceramic material is highly valued for its extreme hardness, high thermal conductivity, and chemical inertness, making it indispensable across a wide range of high-performance applications. It is extensively traded for use as an abrasive in grinding and polishing, as a refractory material in high-temperature furnaces, and increasingly as a semiconductor material in power electronics and LEDs due to its superior electrical properties compared to silicon. International trade is fueled by the demand from automotive, aerospace, electronics, and metallurgical industries. Exporters are typically countries with advanced materials processing capabilities, while importers are nations with robust manufacturing sectors requiring high-performance components. Its diverse forms, from powders to wafers, dictate specific trade routes and end-uses.

Products Under This Code

Silicon carbide powder, Silicon carbide grains, Silicon carbide wafers, Silicon carbide heating elements, Silicon carbide refractories, Silicon carbide fibers

Real World Examples

Saint-Gobain SiC abrasives, Washington Mills SiC refractories, Coorstek SiC ceramics, Wolfspeed SiC semiconductors

Common Misclassification

Distinct from calcium carbide (284910) and other carbides (284990). The key is the specific element, silicon, which gives it unique properties for abrasives and electronics.

Products Classified Under 2849.20

Industry

This code belongs to the Chemicals industry.

Trade Overview

China, Norway, and the US are key producers and exporters, with global demand driven by electronics and automotive industries in Asia and Europe.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is HS code 284920?

HS code 284920 covers: Carbides; of silicon, whether or not chemically defined. Silicon carbide (SiC), whether chemically defined or not, is classified under this HS code. This advanced ceramic material is highly valued for its extreme hardness, high thermal conductivity, and chemical inertness, making it indispensable across a wide range of high-performance applications. It is extensively traded for use as an abrasive in grinding and polishing, as a refractory material in high-temperature furnaces, and increasingly as a semiconductor material in power electronics and LEDs due to its superior electrical properties compared to silicon. International trade is fueled by the demand from automotive, aerospace, electronics, and metallurgical industries. Exporters are typically countries with advanced materials processing capabilities, while importers are nations with robust manufacturing sectors requiring high-performance components. Its diverse forms, from powders to wafers, dictate specific trade routes and end-uses.

What products fall under HS code 284920?

Silicon carbide powder, Silicon carbide grains, Silicon carbide wafers, Silicon carbide heating elements, Silicon carbide refractories, Silicon carbide fibers

What are common misclassifications for HS code 284920?

Distinct from calcium carbide (284910) and other carbides (284990). The key is the specific element, silicon, which gives it unique properties for abrasives and electronics.

How is HS code 284920 structured?

HS code 284920 is a 6-digit subheading under the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (28) identify the chapter, digits 3-4 (49) identify the heading, and digits 5-6 (20) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.