HS Code for Paraformaldehyde

Paraformaldehyde is classified under HS code 2912.60 because it is a solid polymer of formaldehyde (methanal) with a low degree of polymerization, typically consisting of 8 to 100 units of formaldehyde. According to the General Rules of Interpretation (GRI) and the Explanatory Notes to the Harmonized System, aldehydes and their cyclic polymers are classified under heading 2912. Although paraformaldehyde is technically a polymer, it is specifically excluded from Chapter 39 (Plastics) when it remains a chemically defined aldehyde or a simple polymer of formaldehyde used primarily as a source of formaldehyde gas or in chemical synthesis. The classification 2912.60 is reserved specifically for this substance, distinguishing it from other aldehydes like formaldehyde solutions (2912.11) or cyclic polymers like trioxane. The purity and the specific chemical structure as a linear polyoxymethylene glycols chain define its placement here. It is often used in the production of resins, but in its raw chemical form, it remains in Chapter 29. The substance is usually presented as a white crystalline powder with a characteristic pungent odor. Its classification is driven by its chemical identity as a solid form of methanal, which is the simplest aldehyde. Under GRI 1, the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes are paramount, and Note 1 to Chapter 29 allows for the inclusion of certain polymers like paraformaldehyde within the chemical chapter rather than the plastics chapter.

Products Included

• Solid formaldehyde powder
• Granular paraformaldehyde
• Polyoxymethylene (low molecular weight)
• Technical grade paraformaldehyde flakes

Common Misclassification

Paraformaldehyde is frequently confused with HS code 3907.10, which covers polyacetals. While both are polymers of formaldehyde, 3907 is intended for high-molecular-weight plastics used in engineering. It is also sometimes misclassified under 2912.11, which is specifically for aqueous solutions of formaldehyde (formalin).

FAQ

What is the HS code for Paraformaldehyde?

The HS code for Paraformaldehyde is 2912.60.

Is paraformaldehyde classified as a plastic in Chapter 39?

No, despite being a polymer, it is specifically assigned to Chapter 29 (Organic Chemicals) under heading 2912 because it is a solid form of the aldehyde formaldehyde.