Sodium Silicate Solution (Water Glass)
A viscous, aqueous solution of sodium silicate, commonly known as water glass, used in detergents, adhesives, and as a concrete sealant. It falls under HTS 2839.90.5000 as a commercial alkali metal silicate, specifically sodium silicate in its soluble form, distinct from solid or fused varieties.
Import Duty Rates by Country of Origin
Alternative Classifications
This product could be classified differently depending on its characteristics or intended use.
If containing magnesium, calcium, or other non-alkali metals
Shifts to other silicates if not purely alkali metal-based per Chapter 28 notes.
If formulated as a prepared binder or additive for specific retail use
Mixtures with organic substances or preparations fall under chemical preparations, not pure silicates.
If in powder form used as glass frit in pigments or ceramics
Processed glass in powder/flake form for pigments is excluded from Chapter 28 per chapter notes.
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 concentration and purity via Certificate of Analysis to confirm classification as chemically defined alkali metal silicate
• Ensure proper hazardous material labeling if shipped as liquid; common pitfall is misdeclaring as soap or detergent base
• Obtain EPA approvals for industrial uses like wastewater treatment to avoid customs holds
Related Products under HTS 2839.90.50.00
Potassium Silicate Liquid
A clear liquid solution of potassium silicate used in specialty paints, welding electrodes, and fireproofing agents. Classified under HTS 2839.90.5000 as a commercial alkali metal silicate, emphasizing its potassium base and soluble state.
Anhydrous Sodium Silicate Powder
Dehydrated powder of sodium silicate used in specialty ceramics and investment casting. Classified in HTS 2839.90.5000 as an 'other' form of commercial sodium silicate, lacking water of hydration.
Rubian's Sodium Silicate for Detergents
Proprietary commercial grade sodium silicate optimized for phosphate-free detergents. HTS 2839.90.5000 covers this as 'other' alkali metal silicate tailored for cleaning applications.
PQ Corporation Sodium Silicate N
Neutral-density sodium silicate (SiO2:Na2O ratio ~3.2) for adhesives and catalysts. Fits HTS 2839.90.5000 as a commercial variant of alkali metal silicates.
Lithium Silicate Solution
Aqueous solution of lithium silicate for concrete densifiers and protective coatings. It is included under HTS 2839.90.5000 as a commercial alkali metal silicate, with lithium as an alkali metal.
Sodium Metasilicate Pentahydrate Powder
Crystalline powder form of sodium metasilicate with five water molecules, widely used in heavy-duty cleaners and laundry detergents. It qualifies for HTS 2839.90.5000 as a commercial alkali metal silicate outside the specific sodium silicate subheadings.