Sodium Silicate Solution (Water Glass) from China
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.
Duty Rate — China → United States
38.1%
Rate breakdown
9903.03.0110%Except for products described in headings 9903.03.02–9903.03.11, articles the product of any country, as provided for in subdivision (aa) of U.S. note 2 to this subchapter
9903.88.0325%Except as provided in headings 9903.88.13, 9903.88.18, 9903.88.33, 9903.88.34, 9903.88.35, 9903.88.36, 9903.88.37, 9903.88.38, 9903.88.40, 9903.88.41, 9903.88.43, 9903.88.45, 9903.88.46, 9903.88.48, 9903.88.56, 9903.88.64, 9903.88.66, 9903.88.67, 9903.88.68, or 9903.88.69, articles the product of China, as provided for in U.S. note 20(e) to this subchapter and as provided for in the subheadings enumerated in U.S. note 20(f)
Import Tips
• 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