Linear Alkylbenzene Sulfonic Acid (LABSA)
LABSA is a synthetic anionic surfactant with an aromatic structure, widely used as the primary active ingredient in liquid laundry detergents and dishwashing liquids. It qualifies under HTS 3402.39.10.00 as an aromatic organic surface-active agent due to its benzene ring backbone and sulfonic acid group, meeting the surface tension reduction test in Chapter 34 note 2. Typically supplied in bulk as a viscous brown liquid for industrial formulation.
Import Duty Rates by Country of Origin
Alternative Classifications
This product could be classified differently depending on its characteristics or intended use.
If blended with other nonionic surfactants
Mixtures of anionic and other surface-active agents shift to the 'other' subheading outside pure anionic category.
If purely cationic rather than anionic
Cationic surfactants like quaternary ammonium compounds with aromatic groups fall under the cationic heading.
If heavily formulated with builders or enzymes for direct retail sale
Prepared chemical mixtures resembling finished cleaners may classify as chemical preparations rather than pure surfactants.
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Import Tips & Compliance
• Verify purity and active matter content via lab analysis to confirm classification as a pure surfactant rather than a finished preparation
• Obtain Safety Data Sheets (SDS) and ensure proper hazardous material declaration for acidic liquid shipments
• Avoid misclassification as soap by confirming water solubility test per Chapter 34 note 1
Related Products under HTS 3402.39.10.00
Dodecylbenzene Sulfonic Acid (DDBSA)
DDBSA is a modified aromatic anionic surfactant used in heavy-duty industrial cleaners, emulsifiers, and agricultural formulations. Its aromatic benzene ring modified with a long alkyl chain and sulfonic group places it under HTS 3402.39.10.00 as it forms stable emulsions and reduces surface tension per Chapter note 2. Commonly imported in ISO-tanks for detergent manufacturing.
Sodium Xylene Sulfonate
This hydrotropic aromatic anionic surfactant enhances viscosity and solubility in liquid detergents and cleaning formulations. Classified under HTS 3402.39.10.00 for its modified xylene (dimethylbenzene) aromatic structure with sulfonate group, meeting organic surface-active agent criteria. Used as a coupling agent in retail and industrial cleaners.
Toluene Sulfonic Acid (TSA)
Para-toluene sulfonic acid serves as both a catalyst and anionic surfactant in polymerization and cleaning applications. Its aromatic toluene ring with sulfonic acid modification fits HTS 3402.39.10.00 as it demonstrates surface-active properties in aqueous solutions. Supplied as white flakes or 65% solution for chemical synthesis.
Cumenesulfonic Acid
An aromatic anionic surfactant derived from cumene (isopropylbenzene), used in polymerization emulsifiers and hydrotropic cleaners. Falls under HTS 3402.39.10.00 due to its modified aromatic structure and compliance with surface tension reduction standards. Imported as aqueous solution for specialty chemical applications.
Naphthalene Sulfonic Acid Salts
Sodium salts of naphthalene sulfonic acids act as anionic dispersants and surfactants in dye manufacturing and concrete admixtures. The fused aromatic ring system qualifies as modified aromatic under HTS 3402.39.10.00, forming stable emulsions per Chapter note. Typically powder form for industrial use.