HS Code for Bone char

Bone char, also known as animal black, is classified under HS code 3802.90. This code covers activated natural mineral products and animal black, including spent animal black. Bone char is produced by the carbonization of animal bones in a low-oxygen environment, resulting in a porous material consisting primarily of tricalcium phosphate and carbon. It is widely used in industrial processes such as sugar refining for decolorization and in water treatment for the removal of fluoride and heavy metals. The classification falls under Chapter 38 for miscellaneous chemical products. Specifically, heading 38.02 distinguishes between activated carbon (3802.10) and other activated natural mineral products or animal blacks (3802.90). Since bone char is derived from animal matter rather than vegetable or mineral carbon, it is categorized under the .90 subheading.

Products Included

• Animal black (bone charcoal)
• Spent animal black (used bone char)
• Ivory black (pigment grade bone char)
• Bone black for water filtration
• Granular bone char for sugar refining

Common Misclassification

Bone char is frequently misclassified under HS code 3802.10, which is reserved for activated carbon (usually of vegetable or mineral origin, like coconut shell or coal). While both are used for filtration, the animal origin of bone char requires the 3802.90 designation. It is also sometimes incorrectly classified under 0506.90, which covers unworked or simply prepared bones; however, once the bone has been carbonized into char, it is considered a chemical product of Chapter 38.

FAQ

What is the HS code for bone char?

The HS code for bone char, animal black, and spent animal black is 3802.90.

Is bone char the same as activated carbon in the HS system?

No. While they serve similar functions, activated carbon is classified under 3802.10, while bone char (animal black) is classified under 3802.90.