OB Fluorescent Brightener for Plastics

OB-type benzoxazol fluorescent brightener is added to polystyrene, PVC, and ABS plastics to achieve high whiteness and brightness. HTS 3204.20.40.00 covers this synthetic organic product used as a luminophore in polymer compounding. It prevents yellowness in transparent and opaque plastic products.

Import Duty Rates by Country of Origin

Origin CountryMFN RateCh.99 SurchargesTotal Effective Rate
🇨🇳ChinaFree+10.0%10%
🇲🇽MexicoFree+10.0%10%
🇨🇦CanadaFree+10.0%10%
🇩🇪GermanyFree+10.0%10%
🇯🇵JapanFree+10.0%10%

Alternative Classifications

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

3206.50.00.00Higher: 41.5% vs 10%

If used as inorganic luminophore base

Luminophores not synthetic organic classify under 3206, but benzoxazol is organic.

3901Higher: 16.5% vs 10%

If dispersed in polymer masterbatch form

Brightener embedded in plastic resins becomes a polymer product, not pure chemical.

3824.99Higher: 15% vs 10%

If sold as additive mixture for industrial compounding

Prepared additives blending multiple chemicals fall outside pure coloring matter scope.

Not sure which classification is right?

Our AI classifier can analyze your specific product and recommend the correct HTS code with confidence.

Import Tips & Compliance

Include CAS number (typically 1533-45-5 for OB-1) in import docs for customs verification

Test for solvent content; solutions with >50% solvent may shift to 3208 per chapter notes