HS Code for Potassium hydroxide

Potassium hydroxide (KOH), commonly known as caustic potash, is classified under HS code 2815.20. This code is specifically reserved for potassium hydroxide in both solid and aqueous solution forms. Chapter 28 covers inorganic chemicals, and heading 2815 covers sodium hydroxide (caustic soda), potassium hydroxide (caustic potash), and peroxides of sodium or potassium. Potassium hydroxide is a strong base and is highly corrosive. It is produced industrially by the electrolysis of potassium chloride. Its classification is straightforward due to its specific mention in the heading. It is used in the production of soft soaps, as an electrolyte in alkaline batteries, and in various chemical manufacturing processes. The HS code 2815.20 is split in many national tariffs into 2815.20.0010 (solid) and 2815.20.0020 (liquid/aqueous solution), but the primary six-digit code remains the same globally.

Products Included

• Potassium hydroxide pellets (caustic potash pellets).
• Potassium hydroxide flakes or lumps.
• Liquid potassium hydroxide (aqueous solutions of KOH).
• Reagent grade potassium hydroxide for laboratory use.
• Technical grade caustic potash for industrial soap making.

Common Misclassification

The most frequent misclassification of potassium hydroxide is with sodium hydroxide (caustic soda), which falls under HS code 2815.11 (solid) or 2815.12 (aqueous solution). While they are both strong alkalis, the chemical difference between sodium and potassium is a fundamental distinction in the HS system. It is also sometimes confused with potassium carbonate (2836.40), which is a milder alkali. Additionally, if potassium hydroxide is mixed with oils and fats to create soap, the resulting product is classified under Chapter 34 (3401), not 2815. Mixtures of KOH with other substances for specific industrial uses may also fall under 3824 (prepared binders/chemical products).

FAQ

What is the HS code for potassium hydroxide?

The HS code for potassium hydroxide, also known as caustic potash, is 2815.20.

What is the difference between caustic potash and caustic soda in HS codes?

Caustic potash is potassium hydroxide (2815.20), while caustic soda is sodium hydroxide (2815.11/2815.12). They are classified under different subheadings of the same 2815 heading based on the metal cation present.