HS Code for PFOS

Perfluorooctane sulphonic acid (PFOS) is classified under HS code 2904.31 because it is a separate chemically defined organic compound. Specifically, it falls under Chapter 29, which covers organic chemicals, and heading 2904, which includes sulfonated, nitrated, or nitrosated derivatives of hydrocarbons. PFOS is a perfluorinated compound where the hydrogen atoms of the octane chain are replaced by fluorine, and it features a sulfonic acid functional group. The international community, through the World Customs Organization (WCO), established this specific subheading to facilitate the monitoring of substances regulated under the Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs). Classification here requires the product to be in its pure acid form, rather than a salt or a prepared mixture. The chemical purity must meet the standards of Chapter 29 notes to qualify for this specific code.

Products Included

• Perfluorooctane sulphonic acid (pure)
• Heptadecafluorooctane-1-sulphonic acid
• PFOS acid in aqueous solution (if not meeting mixture criteria)
• 1-Octanesulfonic acid, 1,1,2,2,3,3,4,4,5,5,6,6,7,7,8,8,8-heptadecafluoro-

Common Misclassification

PFOS is frequently misclassified under HS code 2904.35, which is reserved for the salts of PFOS. It is also often confused with HS code 3824.87, which covers chemical mixtures containing PFOS. If the substance is not a separate chemically defined compound but is instead part of a preparation (like a firefighting foam), it must be moved to Chapter 38. Additionally, some importers mistakenly use 2903, which covers halogenated derivatives of hydrocarbons, but the presence of the sulfonic acid group mandates classification in 2904.

FAQ

What is the HS code for PFOS?

The HS code for perfluorooctane sulphonic acid in its pure form is 2904.31.

Does this code include PFOS salts?

No, PFOS salts are classified under HS code 2904.35, while the acid itself is 2904.31.