2,4,6-Trinitrotoluene (TNT)
2,4,6-Trinitrotoluene, commonly known as TNT, is a yellow crystalline solid organic compound derived from toluene through nitration, containing three nitro groups. It falls under HTS 2904.20.20.00 as a nitrated derivative of hydrocarbons with only nitro groups, specifically trinitrotoluene. Primarily used as a high explosive in military and industrial applications.
Import Duty Rates by Country of Origin
Alternative Classifications
This product could be classified differently depending on its characteristics or intended use.
If when formulated as an explosive composition with stabilizers or desensitizers
Mixtures containing TNT as a component for explosive use are classified in Chapter 36 as prepared explosives, not pure chemical compounds.
If dinitrotoluene rather than trinitro
Dinitro derivatives of toluene fall under the earlier subheading 2904.20.15 within the same heading for nitro derivatives.
If containing more than 50% petroleum oils as solvent
Nitrated hydrocarbon mixtures dissolved in petroleum solvents exceeding 50% are reclassified to Chapter 27 as petroleum-derived products.
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Import Tips & Compliance
• Obtain ATF explosives permits and comply with UN dangerous goods regulations for transport
• Provide detailed chemical purity certificates and end-use statements to avoid security scrutiny
• Avoid common pitfalls like improper labeling as hazardous material, which can lead to shipment rejection
Related Products under HTS 2904.20.20.00
Technical Grade Trinitrotoluene (TNT 99%)
Technical grade TNT at 99% purity is a nitrated toluene derivative used in mining and demolition explosives. Classified under HTS 2904.20.20.00 due to its chemical structure as trinitrotoluene with only nitro groups attached to the hydrocarbon backbone. Impurities are minimal and do not change its primary classification.
Molten Trinitrotoluene (Castable TNT)
Molten trinitrotoluene is heated TNT used for casting into explosive shells and munitions. It remains classified under HTS 2904.20.20.00 as the pure nitrated hydrocarbon derivative, with heating solely for transport safety per chapter notes. The molten state does not alter its chemical classification.
TNT Flake Form (Trinitrotoluene Crystals)
TNT in flake or crystalline form is the standard physical presentation of 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene for explosive manufacturing. HTS 2904.20.20.00 applies as it's a separate chemically defined nitrated hydrocarbon with only nitro groups. The flake form facilitates melting and pouring in production.
Purified 2,4,6-Trinitrotoluene USP Grade
USP-grade purified TNT meets pharmaceutical standards for research use in chemical synthesis studies. Despite non-explosive end use, it remains under HTS 2904.20.20.00 as the pure trinitrotoluene molecule per chapter classification rules. Impurities are below 0.1% for analytical applications.