Petroleum Sulfonate Surfactant

Anionic surfactant from petroleum sulfonic acids, used in emulsifiable oils. Qualifies under 3402 despite petroleum origin (distinct from Chapter 27 oils).

Import Duty Rates by Country of Origin

Origin CountryMFN RateCh.99 SurchargesTotal Effective Rate
πŸ‡¨πŸ‡³China3.7%+35.0%38.7%
πŸ‡²πŸ‡½Mexico3.7%+10.0%13.7%
πŸ‡¨πŸ‡¦Canada3.7%+10.0%13.7%
πŸ‡©πŸ‡ͺGermany3.7%+10.0%13.7%
πŸ‡―πŸ‡΅Japan3.7%+10.0%13.7%

Alternative Classifications

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

3403.19Lower: 15.8% vs 38.7%

If lubricating oil base

Petroleum lubricants with sulfonates classify in 3403, not pure surfactants.

2710.19Lower: 17% vs 38.7%

If mineral oil derived

Unmodified petroleum sulfonic extracts remain Chapter 27 products.

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Import Tips & Compliance

β€’ Distinguish from 3403 petroleum-based by surface activity testing

β€’ Oil content analysis prevents Chapter 27 misclassification

β€’ Dark viscous form; provide flash point data for shipping

Related Products under HTS 3402.39.90

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate Powder

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) is an anionic surfactant commonly used in shampoos, toothpastes, and foaming cleansers. It meets the Chapter 34 definition for organic surface-active agents by reducing surface tension in water solutions to below 45 dyne/cm. Classified under 3402.39.90 as a non-soap anionic agent not put up for retail sale.

Linear Alkylbenzene Sulfonic Acid (LABSA)

LABSA is a primary anionic surfactant used in liquid laundry detergents and industrial cleaners. It qualifies as an organic surface-active agent under heading 3402 by forming stable emulsions and reducing water surface tension. Falls under 3402.39.90 as 'other' anionic agents.

Sodium Alpha Olefin Sulfonate (AOS)

AOS is a foam-boosting anionic surfactant derived from alpha olefins, used in shampoos and hand soaps. It passes the 3402 surface-active test by creating translucent solutions. Classified in 3402.39.90 as other anionic agents.

Ammonium Laureth Sulfate

A mild anionic surfactant used in baby shampoos and bubble baths, providing rich lather. Meets 3402 criteria through low surface tension and stable emulsions. 3402.39.90 covers this ethoxylated 'other' anionic agent.

Sodium Xylene Sulfonate

Hydrotrope anionic surfactant that enhances solubility in liquid detergents. Qualifies under 3402 for surface tension reduction despite primary hydrotrope function. 3402.39.90 for other anionics.

Dodecylbenzene Sulfonic Acid (DDBSA)

Acid form of LAS surfactant widely used in household and industrial cleaners. Anionic active agent per Chapter definition. 3402.39.90 classification for bulk industrial shipments.