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.
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More Specific Codes
This product may fall under a more specific subheading:
Alternative Classifications
This product could be classified differently depending on its characteristics or intended use.
If non-ionic active agent
Non-ionic surfactants like alcohol ethoxylates fall under 3402.90, based on chemical structure and surface activity test.
If water-soluble soap base
Products meeting soap definition (water-soluble salts of fatty acids) shift to heading 3401.
If chemically defined compound
Chapter exclusion applies to separate chemically defined compounds, moving to Chapter 38.
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The Tariff Assistant works through the GRI rules on your specific product to reach the right HTS code — and can price the duty on it in the same conversation.
Import Tips & Compliance
• Verify purity and active ingredient concentration via lab analysis to confirm anionic classification
• Include Safety Data Sheets (SDS) showing surface tension reduction test results per Chapter notes
• Avoid retail packaging; bulk shipments classified differently than consumer-ready products
Related Products under HTS 3402.39.90
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.
Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
Anionic surfactant from C14-C16 olefins, offering excellent foaming in hard water. Meets precise 3402 test criteria for surface activity. Other anionic under 3402.39.90.