Linear Alkylbenzene Sulfonate (LAS)
LAS is a primary anionic synthetic surfactant used in laundry and dishwashing detergents for its excellent foaming and cleaning properties. It meets the Chapter 34 definition for organic surface-active agents by reducing surface tension in water solutions and forming stable emulsions. Classified under 3402.90.10 as a synthetic detergent, distinct from soap.
Import Duty Rates by Country of Origin
Alternative Classifications
This product could be classified differently depending on its characteristics or intended use.
If cationic synthetic surfactant
Cationic surface-active agents like quaternary ammonium compounds are separately classified in 3402.20.
If prepared as chemical intermediate, not final detergent
Unfinished preparations or mixtures not qualifying as surface-active agents go to Chapter 38 as chemical products.
If sold in scouring powder form with abrasives
Products with abrasive powders not in bar/cake form shift to 3405 as polishing/scouring preparations.
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Import Tips & Compliance
• Verify surfactant concentration meets 0.5% water test for surface tension reduction per Chapter notes to avoid reclassification
• Provide Safety Data Sheets (SDS) and purity certificates; common pitfall is mislabeling as soap leading to 3401 duties
• Ensure CAS number documentation (e.g
• 27176-87-0) for customs verification of synthetic composition
Related Products under HTS 3402.90.10.00
Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES)
SLES is a widely used anionic surfactant derived from lauryl alcohol, providing rich foam in shampoos and body washes. It satisfies heading 3402 criteria by forming translucent emulsions and lowering water surface tension below 45 dyne/cm. Falls under 3402.90.10 as a synthetic detergent for personal care formulations.
Decyl Glucoside
A mild, nonionic synthetic surfactant from glucose and decyl alcohol, used in natural baby shampoos. Qualifies under 3402 by standard surface tension and emulsion tests despite bio-based origin. Synthetic detergent per 3402.90.10.
Polyether Siloxane Surfactant
Silicone-based synthetic nonionic surfactant for defoaming in industrial cleaners and agrochemicals. Meets 3402 organic surface-active definition through emulsification properties. 3402.90.10 as synthetic detergent.
Branched Alkylbenzene Sulfonate
Synthetic anionic surfactant for heavy-duty detergents, less biodegradable than linear types. Complies with heading 3402 tests for synthetic detergents. HTS 3402.90.10.
Sulfosuccinate Ester Surfactant
Anionic diester surfactant for wetting in textiles and emulsifiers. Synthetic detergent under 3402.90.10.
APG Alkyl Polyglucoside
Nonionic from glucose/fatty alcohols for eco-detergents. 3402.90.10 synthetic.