HS Code for Tellurium

Tellurium is classified under HS code 2804.50. This classification falls within Chapter 28, which covers inorganic chemicals, precious metals, and rare-earth metals. Specifically, heading 2804 is designated for hydrogen, rare gases, and other non-metals. Tellurium, a chemical element with the symbol Te and atomic number 52, is a brittle, mildly toxic, rare, silver-white metalloid. In the Harmonized System, it is grouped together with Boron under the subheading 2804.50. This classification applies to tellurium in its elemental form, whether it is in the form of powder, ingots, or lumps. The purity of the tellurium does not generally change its heading within 2804, provided it has not been \"doped\" for use in electronics. Tellurium is widely used in the manufacturing of solar panels (cadmium telluride), thermoelectric devices, and as an alloying agent in steel and copper to improve machinability. Its classification is straightforward as an elemental non-metal/metalloid under the chemical section of the tariff schedule.

Products Included

• Elemental tellurium in bulk powder form
• Tellurium ingots or slabs
• High-purity tellurium (99.9%+) for industrial use
• Tellurium sticks or broken pieces
• Boron (which shares the same 2804.50 subheading)

Common Misclassification

Tellurium is often misclassified when it is in the form of a chemical compound. For example, Tellurium Dioxide (TeO2) is an oxide and should be classified under 2811.29. Similarly, tellurates and tellurites are classified under 2842.90. Another critical distinction involves tellurium that has been doped for use in electronics; if it is in the form of wafers or similar shapes for the semiconductor industry, it may be classified under 3818.00. Finally, tellurium alloys where tellurium is not the predominant element by weight must be classified according to the metal that predominates (e.g., copper alloys in Chapter 74).

FAQ

What is the HS code for Tellurium?

The HS code for elemental tellurium is 2804.50, a category it shares with boron.

Is tellurium classified as a metal or a non-metal in the HS system?

In the HS system, tellurium is classified under heading 2804, which is specifically for \"other non-metals,\" despite its metalloid properties.