HS Code for Potassium bromide

Potassium bromide (KBr) is classified under HS code 2827.51 because it is an inorganic salt consisting of the bromide of an alkali metal, specifically potassium. Within the Harmonized System, Chapter 28 covers inorganic chemicals, and heading 2827 specifically addresses chlorides, bromide oxides, and bromides. Subheading 2827.51 is reserved for the bromides of sodium or potassium. This classification is determined by the chemical composition of the substance, which is a binary salt formed by the reaction of potassium hydroxide with hydrogen bromide. It is widely used in various industries, from pharmaceuticals as an anticonvulsant to photography as a sensitizing agent. The classification remains consistent regardless of the physical form, whether it is in crystalline powder, granules, or pressed into pellets for infrared spectroscopy. The General Rules for the Interpretation (GRI) of the Harmonized System dictate that products are classified according to the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes. Since 2827.51 explicitly names potassium bromide, it is the primary classification for the pure chemical substance.

Products Included

• Pharmaceutical grade potassium bromide used as a sedative or anticonvulsant.
• Photographic grade potassium bromide used in the manufacture of photographic emulsions.
• Infrared (IR) spectroscopy grade KBr crystals and powder used for sample preparation.
• Technical grade potassium bromide for industrial chemical synthesis.
• Potassium bromide in aqueous solution for laboratory use.

Common Misclassification

Potassium bromide is frequently confused with other halides or organic bromine compounds. It should not be classified under HS code 2827.59, which is reserved for "other" bromides not including sodium or potassium. Additionally, organic compounds containing bromine, such as methyl bromide, fall under Chapter 29 (specifically 2903.39), not Chapter 28. Another common error is misclassifying it under 3824 as a prepared chemical mixture if it is blended with other substances; however, pure KBr must remain in 2827.51. Finally, if the product is put up in measured doses for medical use, it may move to Chapter 30 (3004), though the bulk chemical remains in 2827.51.

FAQ

What is the HS code for potassium bromide?

The standard international HS code for potassium bromide is 2827.51, which specifically covers bromides of sodium or potassium.

Is potassium bromide considered a hazardous material for shipping?

While potassium bromide is generally stable, it is classified as an irritant. For international shipping, it must be packaged according to safety data sheet (SDS) guidelines, though it is not typically classified as a high-risk dangerous good like potassium cyanide.