Phosphorus Pentoxide
Phosphorus pentoxide (P4O10), also known as phosphoric anhydride, is a white, highly hygroscopic powder used primarily as a desiccant and dehydrating agent in chemical synthesis. As a chemically defined inorganic oxygen compound of the non-metal phosphorus, it falls under tariff item 2811.29.00 for other inorganic oxygen compounds of non-metals. It is not excluded by Chapter 28 notes and is not a metal salt, so it is correctly classified here.
Import Duty Rates by Country of Origin
| Origin Country | MFN Tariff | Surtaxes | Total Effective Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🇨🇳China | Free | — | Free |
| 🇲🇽Mexico | Free | — | Free |
| 🇺🇸United States | Free | — | Free |
| 🇩🇪Germany | Free | — | Free |
| 🇯🇵Japan | Free | — | Free |
Alternative Classifications
This product could be classified differently depending on its characteristics or intended use.
If the product is classified as a hydrogen halide acid rather than an oxygen compound
Phosphorus pentoxide is an oxide, not a hydrogen acid, so this alternative is unlikely but listed for completeness.
If the product is presented as phosphoric acid rather than the anhydride
Phosphoric acid (H3PO4) is a separate heading; the anhydride form is distinct.
Not sure which classification is right?
The Tariff Assistant works through the GRI rules on your specific product to reach the right tariff item — and can price the duty on it in the same conversation.
Import Tips & Compliance
• Ensure the product is pure and not mixed with organic substances, as that could shift classification
• Declare the correct end-use (desiccant or dehydrating agent) to the CBSA to avoid reclassification
• Verify whether the shipment requires a permit under the Export and Import Permits Act if the phosphorus content triggers controls
Related Products under Tariff item 2811.29.00
ACS Reagent Selenium Dioxide
ACS reagent grade selenium dioxide for high-precision analytical and research applications. It is a pure, chemically defined inorganic oxygen compound of the non-metal selenium, meeting Chapter 28 note 1 requirements.
Anhydrous Sulfur Dioxide for Wine Preservation
High-purity anhydrous sulfur dioxide gas used in winemaking to prevent oxidation and microbial growth. This chemically defined inorganic oxygen compound of sulfur meets the Chapter 28 criteria for separate chemical compounds, whether or not containing impurities. Supplied in pressurized containers for direct use in wine preservation.
Antimony Trioxide
Antimony trioxide (Sb₂O₃) used as a flame retardant in plastics and a catalyst in PET production. This fine white powder is an inorganic oxygen compound of the non-metal antimony, classified under Chapter 28. The product is a chemically defined compound in its pure form.
Arsenic Trioxide
Arsenic trioxide (As₂O₃), a white powder used in pharmaceuticals and glass production, is an inorganic oxygen compound of the non-metal arsenic. This chemically defined compound falls under Chapter 28 as an 'other' inorganic oxygen compound of non-metals. The product is supplied in pure form for various industrial applications.
Arsenic Trioxide Anhydrous Powder
Arsenic trioxide (As2O3) in anhydrous powder form, a white crystalline inorganic compound. It is a chemically defined inorganic oxygen compound of the non-metal arsenic, used primarily in industrial applications such as glass production and metallurgy.
Arsenic Trioxide Flake Form
Arsenic trioxide in dense flake form, used for easier handling in metallurgy and glass decolorizing processes. It is a chemically defined inorganic oxygen compound of the non-metal arsenic, falling under this tariff item.