HS Code for Water glass

Water glass, chemically known as sodium silicate, is classified under HS code 2839.19. This classification falls within Chapter 28, which covers inorganic chemicals. Specifically, heading 2839 covers silicates, and subheading 2839.19 is designated for silicates of sodium other than sodium metasilicates. Water glass is produced by fusing sodium carbonate and silica sand, resulting in a product that is soluble in water. It is widely used in industrial applications, including as a detergent builder, a binder in cements, a soil stabilizer, and a preservative. The classification is based on the chemical identity of the substance as a separate chemically defined compound. Even though it is called \"glass,\" it is not a glass in the sense of Chapter 70 (Glass and Glassware) because it lacks the permanent vitrified structure and is chemically distinct as a salt of silicic acid.

Products Included

• Liquid sodium silicate
• Solid sodium silicate (lumps or cullet)
• Sodium orthosilicate
• Sodium sesquisilicate
• Hydrated sodium silicates

Common Misclassification

The most common misclassification is HS code 2839.11, which is specifically for sodium metasilicates. Sodium metasilicates have a specific molar ratio (1:1) and are distinct from the broader range of sodium silicates known as water glass. Another error is classifying it under 3824.99 as a chemical preparation, but since water glass is usually a single chemically defined compound, Chapter 28 is mandatory.

FAQ

What is the HS code for water glass?

The HS code for water glass (sodium silicate) is 2839.19.

Is water glass classified as a type of glass?

No, despite its name, it is a chemical compound classified under 2839.19, not under the glassware chapter (Chapter 70).