HS Code for Optical brightener

Optical brighteners, also referred to as fluorescent whitening agents, are classified under HS code 3204.20. This classification is based on the chemical nature and functional use of the product. Chapter 32 covers tanning or dyeing extracts, pigments, and other coloring matter. Heading 3204 specifically addresses synthetic organic coloring matter, whether or not chemically defined. Subheading 3204.20 is the specific international designation for synthetic organic products of a kind used as fluorescent brightening agents. These substances function by absorbing ultraviolet light and re-emitting it in the blue spectrum, which compensates for the yellowing of materials like paper or textiles. Because they are synthetic organic compounds used to alter the optical appearance of a substrate, they fall squarely within this category. The classification remains the same whether the brightener is in powder, liquid, or paste form, provided it is a synthetic organic product used for its brightening properties.

Products Included

• Stilbene derivatives used for whitening
• Coumarin-based optical brighteners
• Fluorescent whitening agents for textiles
• Optical brightening agents for paper and pulp
• Synthetic organic brighteners for plastics
• Whitening agents used in detergent formulations

Common Misclassification

Optical brighteners are sometimes misclassified under HS code 3206.49, which covers other coloring matter and inorganic pigments. This is incorrect because optical brighteners are synthetic organic compounds, which are specifically directed to heading 3204. Another common confusion arises with HS code 3809.91, which covers finishing agents used in the textile industry. While a finishing agent might contain optical brighteners, if the product is a concentrated brightener itself, 3204.20 is the correct code. If it is a complex mixture for finishing, 3809 might apply.

FAQ

What is the HS code for Optical brightener?

The HS code for optical brighteners is 3204.20, which covers synthetic organic fluorescent brightening agents.

Can optical brighteners for detergents use this code?

Yes, if the product is the pure synthetic organic brightening agent intended for use in detergents, it is classified under 3204.20. However, finished detergent mixtures are classified under 3402.