HS Code for Californium
Californium is a synthetic radioactive chemical element classified under HS code 2844.42. This specific heading is reserved for radioactive elements and isotopes, including their compounds, alloys, dispersions, and ceramic products. Specifically, 2844.42 covers actinium-225, californium-253, and several other specific isotopes like curium and polonium. The classification is determined by the radioactive nature of the material and its specific isotopic identity. As a transuranium element, Californium is primarily used as a neutron source in various industrial and medical applications, such as neutron activation analysis and cancer treatment. The Harmonized System categorizes these materials based on their chemical properties and radioactive activity levels, ensuring that hazardous and regulated nuclear materials are tracked accurately across international borders. Because Californium is not found naturally in significant quantities and is produced in nuclear reactors, it is strictly categorized within the chemical chapter of the HS nomenclature, specifically under the sub-group for radioactive isotopes and their chemical derivatives.
Products Included
- Californium-252 (industrial neutron source)
- Californium-253 isotopes
- Californium oxides and halides
- Radioactive compounds containing californium
- Alloys and dispersions of californium
- Ceramic products containing californium isotopes
Common Misclassification
Californium is often confused with HS code 2844.10, which is reserved for natural uranium and its compounds, or 2844.20, which covers enriched uranium and plutonium. It may also be misclassified under 2844.43, which is a residual category for other radioactive elements and isotopes not specifically named in 2844.41 or 2844.42. Precise identification of the isotope (e.g., Californium-253) is required to distinguish it from the general radioactive materials in 2844.43.
FAQ
What is the HS code for Californium?
The specific HS code for Californium (specifically Californium-253) and its compounds is 2844.42.
Are there special regulations for shipping Californium?
Yes, because it is a highly radioactive material classified under Chapter 28, it is subject to strict IAEA regulations, national nuclear safety permits, and specialized hazardous material (Class 7) transport requirements.
Industry
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the HS code for Californium?
The HS code for Californium is 284442 (Radioactive elements; actinium-225, 227, californium-253, curium-240, 241, 242, 243, 244, einsteinium-253, 254, gadolinium-148, polonium-208, 209, 210, radium-223, uranium-230 or 232, compounds; alloys, dispersions, ceramic products and mixtures).
How do I classify Californium for customs?
Californium is classified under HS code 284442 — Radioactive elements; actinium-225, 227, californium-253, curium-240, 241, 242, 243, 244, einsteinium-253, 254, gadolinium-148, polonium-208, 209, 210, radium-223, uranium-230 or 232, compounds; alloys, dispersions, ceramic products and mixtures. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Is the HS code for Californium the same in all countries?
The base HS code 284442 for Californium is internationally standardized for the first 6 digits across 200+ countries. Individual countries may add additional digits for national tariff lines and specific classifications.