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Dodecylbenzene Sulfonic Acid

Dodecylbenzene sulfonic acid results from sulfonation of dodecylbenzene, an aromatic hydrocarbon with a long alkyl chain. It is covered by HTS 2904.99.40.00 under additional U.S. note 3 to section VI as a key surfactant intermediate. Widely imported for conversion to sodium salts in cleaning products.

Import Duty Rates by Country of Origin

Origin Country	MFN Rate	Ch.99 Surcharges	Total Effective Rate
🇨🇳China	5.5%	+25.0%	30.5%
🇲🇽Mexico	5.5%	—	5.5%
🇨🇦Canada	5.5%	—	5.5%
🇩🇪Germany	5.5%	—	5.5%
🇯🇵Japan	5.5%	—	5.5%

Alternative Classifications

This product could be classified differently depending on its characteristics or intended use.

3402.90Lower: 13.7% vs 30.5%

If imported pre-neutralized with caustic for direct use

Surface-active preparations, even simple salts, move to chapter 34.

2904Same rate: 30.5%

If classified as non-aromatic sulfonated hydrocarbons

Alkyl chain dominance might argue non-aromatic, but benzene ring prevails.

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Import Tips & Compliance

• Require supplier COA verifying carbon chain length and sulfonation degree

• Use UN-approved packaging for corrosive liquids; include proper hazmat declarations

Related Products under HTS 2904.99.40.00

Sodium Dodecylbenzene Sulfonate (SDBS)

Sodium dodecylbenzene sulfonate is an anionic surfactant derived from alkylbenzene through sulfonation, featuring a sulfonated aromatic hydrocarbon structure. It falls under HTS 2904.99.40.00 as a sulfonated derivative of an aromatic hydrocarbon, specifically listed in additional U.S. note 3 to section VI for such surface-active agents. Commonly used in detergents and emulsifiers.

p-Toluenesulfonic Acid (PTSA)

p-Toluenesulfonic acid is a strong organic acid obtained by sulfonation of toluene, fitting the definition of sulfonated aromatic hydrocarbons. It qualifies for HTS 2904.99.40.00 as described in additional U.S. note 3 to section VI, used as a catalyst in esterification and polymerization. The monohydrate form is also common in imports.

Benzenesulfonic Acid

Benzenesulfonic acid is the simplest sulfonated aromatic hydrocarbon, produced by direct sulfonation of benzene. Falls squarely under HTS 2904.99.40.00 per additional U.S. note 3 to section VI for such derivatives. Used in dyestuff manufacturing and as a chemical intermediate.

Cumene Sulfonic Acid

Cumene sulfonic acid, derived from sulfonation of cumene (isopropylbenzene), is an aromatic sulfonated hydrocarbon. Classified in HTS 2904.99.40.00 as specified in additional U.S. note 3 to section VI. Serves as intermediate for detergents and phenolic resins.

Linear Alkylbenzene Sulfonic Acid (LABSA)

Linear alkylbenzene sulfonic acid is a sulfonic acid produced by sulfonation of linear alkylbenzenes, a classic example of a nitrated or sulfonated aromatic hydrocarbon derivative. Classified under HTS 2904.99.40.00 due to its listing in additional U.S. note 3 to section VI for such industrial surfactants. Primarily used in manufacturing liquid detergents.