Linear Alkylbenzene Sulfonic Acid (LABSA)
LABSA is a primary anionic surfactant used in detergent manufacturing, characterized by its aromatic structure and water solubility that meets heading 3402 criteria. It functions by reducing surface tension to facilitate cleaning. Classified under 3402.31.10.00 due to its aromatic or modified aromatic composition as a linear alkylbenzene sulfonic acid.
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Alternative Classifications
This product could be classified differently depending on its characteristics or intended use.
If non-aromatic structure
Non-aromatic anionic surfactants fall under the broader 3402.39 category excluding linear alkylbenzene types.
If imported as formulated mixture
Chemical preparations not purely surface-active agents are classified in 3824 as prepared binders or mixtures.
If put up in retail packaging
Surface-active preparations for retail sale shift from pure agents to 3402.90.
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Import Tips & Compliance
• Verify chemical composition certificates to confirm aromatic structure and purity levels required for 3402 classification
• Ensure proper hazardous material labeling and shipping documentation for corrosive liquids like LABSA
• Avoid misclassification as soap by confirming insolubility tests per Chapter 34 notes
Related Products under HTS 3402.31.10.00
Dodecylbenzene Sulfonic Acid (DDBSA)
DDBSA is a modified aromatic sulfonic acid serving as a key ingredient in liquid laundry detergents and industrial cleaners. Its anionic properties enable effective emulsification and dirt removal per heading 3402 definitions. Falls under 3402.31.10.00 as an aromatic linear alkylbenzene sulfonic acid or salt.
Sodium Dodecylbenzene Sulfonate (SDDBS)
SDDBS is the sodium salt form of dodecylbenzene sulfonic acid, widely used as an emulsifier in pesticides and household cleaners. It qualifies as an anionic surface-active agent under heading 3402 due to its solubility and tension-reducing properties. Specifically classified in 3402.31.10.00 for aromatic linear alkylbenzene sulfonates.
LABSA 96% Concentrate
This 96% active LABSA concentrate is a dark brown viscous liquid used in formulating dishwashing liquids and industrial degreasers. Its aromatic sulfonic acid structure aligns with 3402.31.10.00 specifications for anionic agents. Excludes soap per Chapter notes, focusing on pure surfactant properties.
Modified Toluene Sulfonic Acid Surfactant
A modified aromatic sulfonic acid derived from toluene, used in textile dyeing auxiliaries and emulsifiers. Meets 3402 criteria for organic surface-active agents with required surface tension reduction. Placed in 3402.31.10.00 for its aromatic or modified aromatic sulfonic acid nature.
C12-C14 Alkylbenzene Sulfonic Acid
This C12-C14 chain length aromatic sulfonic acid is standard in heavy-duty liquid detergents and car wash formulations. Its anionic character and solubility define it under heading 3402. Specifically 3402.31.10.00 for linear alkylbenzene sulfonic acids.
Ammonium Linear Alkylbenzene Sulfonate
Ammonium salt of LABSA used in low-foam industrial cleaners and agricultural emulsifiers. Qualifies as aromatic sulfonic salt per 3402.31.10.00 with water dispersibility and surfactant performance. Distinguished from soaps by Chapter definitions.