HS Code for Phosphor powder

Phosphor powder is classified under HS code 3206.50 as an inorganic product of a kind used as a luminophore. Chapter 32 covers tanning or dyeing extracts, tannins and their derivatives, dyes, pigments, and other coloring matter. Heading 3206 is for other coloring matter and preparations. Subheading 3206.50 is specifically for inorganic products that exhibit luminescence—the emission of light not resulting from heat. These substances, often referred to as phosphors, are used in various technological applications, including the coating of fluorescent lamps, cathode ray tubes, and light-emitting diodes (LEDs). The classification depends on the inorganic nature of the chemical compound; organic luminophores are excluded from this heading and are instead classified under heading 3204. The powder must be prepared specifically for its luminescent properties to fall under this code. This classification is critical for the electronics and lighting industries, as it distinguishes functional chemical coatings from standard decorative pigments.

Products Included

• Fluorescent lamp phosphors
• Zinc sulfide based luminophores
• Rare-earth doped phosphor powders
• Electroluminescent powders
• CRT and plasma display phosphors

Common Misclassification

Phosphor powder is often confused with 3204.17 (organic pigments) or 3204.90 (organic luminophores). It may also be misclassified under 2843 through 2846 if the focus is on the rare-earth metal content rather than the functional luminescent preparation. Additionally, 3206.11 (titanium dioxide) is sometimes used in error for white powders.

FAQ

What is the HS code for phosphor powder?

The HS code for inorganic phosphor powder used as a luminophore is 3206.50.

Does this include glow-in-the-dark paint?

If the product is the raw inorganic luminescent powder, it is 3206.50. If it is a finished paint, it would fall under 3208, 3209, or 3210.