Diatomaceous Earth Powder
Natural diatomite, a siliceous fossil meal derived from diatom skeletons, with an apparent specific gravity of less than 1. It is used as a filtration aid in food and beverage processing. Classified under HTS 2512.00.00.00 due to its low density and siliceous fossil origin, whether calcined or not.
Import Duty Rates by Country of Origin
| Origin Country | MFN Rate | Ch.99 Surcharges | Total Effective Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🇨🇳China | Free | +37.5% | 37.5% |
| 🇲🇽Mexico | Free | +10.0% | 10% |
| 🇨🇦Canada | Free | +10.0% | 10% |
| 🇩🇪Germany | Free | +10.0% | 10% |
| 🇯🇵Japan | Free | +12.5% | 12.5% |
Alternative Classifications
This product could be classified differently depending on its characteristics or intended use.
If processed into silica sand or quartz
Silica sands and quartz fall under silica materials in heading 2505, not fossil meals.
If chemically treated for chemical use
Prepared binders or chemical preparations from kieselguhr shift to Chapter 38.
If agglomerated into finished shapes
Worked or agglomerated siliceous products become articles of Chapter 68.
Not sure which classification is right?
The Tariff Assistant works through the GRI rules on your specific product to reach the right HTS code — and can price the duty on it in the same conversation.
Import Tips & Compliance
• Verify apparent specific gravity ≤1 via lab testing for classification; provide geological origin certificates; avoid misclassification as higher-density silicas in Chapter 28
Related Products under HTS 2512.00.00.00
Kieselguhr Filter Aid
Calcined kieselguhr (diatomite) used as a filter aid in brewing and wine production, featuring high porosity and specific gravity under 1. This siliceous earth meets HTS 2512.00.00.00 criteria as a fossil meal.
Tripolite Diatomite
Tripolite, a lightweight siliceous fossil meal similar to diatomite, used in absorbents and fillers, with apparent specific gravity ≤1. It qualifies under HTS 2512.00.00.00 as an uncalcined siliceous earth.
Calcined Diatomite Granules
Granular calcined diatomite for use in cat litter and soil amendments, maintaining specific gravity of 1 or less. This product is explicitly covered by HTS 2512.00.00.00 as a processed siliceous fossil meal.
Natural Kieselguhr Powder
Uncalcined kieselguhr powder from fossil deposits, ideal for insecticide carriers due to its porous structure and low specific gravity. Fits HTS 2512.00.00.00 as a raw siliceous earth.
Diatomite Filtration Media
Powdered diatomite specifically graded for pool and aquarium filtration, with apparent density under 1. Classified in HTS 2512.00.00.00 for its siliceous fossil meal properties.
Siliceous Earth Absorbent
Low-density siliceous fossil earth (diatomite-based) for oil spill cleanup and industrial absorbents. Meets HTS 2512.00.00.00 due to gravity and fossil composition.