HS Code for Fluorosilicates

Fluorosilicates are classified under HS code 2826.90, which serves as the residual category for complex fluorine salts. Chapter 28 covers inorganic chemicals, and heading 2826 is dedicated to fluorides, fluorosilicates, fluoroaluminates, and other complex fluorine salts. While simple fluorides (like ammonium or sodium fluoride) have their own specific subheadings (2826.11 through 2826.19), complex salts where fluorine is bonded with silicon and another metal (like sodium or magnesium) fall into the residual subheading 2826.90. These substances are often used in water treatment, wood preservation, and the manufacture of ceramics. The classification is driven by the chemical structure of the salt; specifically, the presence of the hexafluorosilicate ion (SiF6). According to the Explanatory Notes to the Harmonized System, this heading includes complex salts but excludes natural complex fluorides like cryolite, which is classified in Chapter 25. The technical distinction between a simple fluoride and a complex fluorosilicate is the presence of a central non-metal or metal atom (like Silicon) coordinated with fluorine atoms. Importers must provide a chemical analysis or a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) to confirm the complex nature of the salt to justify 2826.90 over the simpler fluoride codes.

Products Included

• Sodium hexafluorosilicate
• Magnesium fluorosilicate
• Potassium fluorosilicate
• Zinc fluorosilicate
• Ammonium fluorosilicate

Common Misclassification

Fluorosilicates are often misclassified under 2826.19, which is for \"other\" simple fluorides. The distinction lies in the \"complex\" nature of the fluorosilicate ion. They are also sometimes confused with 2839.90 (other silicates), but because they contain fluorine, the specific heading 2826 for fluorine salts takes precedence over the general heading for silicates. Furthermore, natural sodium aluminum fluoride (cryolite) is classified under 2530.90 or 2529, not 2826.90, which is for synthetic or purified chemicals.

FAQ

What is the HS code for sodium fluorosilicate?

Sodium fluorosilicate is classified under HS code 2826.90 as a complex fluorine salt.

Are fluorosilicates classified as hazardous materials?

While the HS code 2826.90 identifies the chemical type, shipping regulations (IMDG/IATA) usually classify them as Class 6.1 toxic substances, which must be declared alongside the HS code.