HTS US: 2839.XX.XXXX
Description
This heading encompasses silicates and commercial alkali metal silicates primarily used in industrial, manufacturing, and chemical applications. These substances are compounds consisting of silicon, oxygen, and alkali metals such as sodium and potassium. Their commercial forms vary based on chemical composition, usage, and physical state.
- Sodium metasilicates: These are water-soluble salts of sodium and silicate ions often used in detergents, water treatment, and as binding agents.
- Potassium silicates: Similar in function to sodium silicates but containing potassium, they are used in fertilizers, sealants, and fire retardants.
- Other alkali metal silicates: This category covers various other commercial silicates differing in alkali metal content or formulation, serving diverse industrial purposes.
Code Hierarchy
- Section VI:
- Products of the Chemical or Allied Industries (Chapters 28-38)
- Chapter 28: Inorganic Chemicals; Organic or Inorganic Compounds of Precious Metals
- Heading 2839: Silicates; commercial alkali metal silicates.
- US HTS Code (10-digit):
2839.XX.XXXX– Specifies the exact type of silicate product.
Detailed Breakdown of Subheadings
The 4-digit HS heading 2839 breaks down into specific 8-digit and 10-digit codes based on the chemical type and composition of the silicate.
| HS/HTS Code | Description | Examples & Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 2839.11.00.00 | Sodium metasilicates | Commonly used in detergents, ceramics, and water treatment as a source of silicate ions. |
| 2839.19.00.00 | Other sodium silicates and commercial alkali metal silicates not specified elsewhere | Includes various sodium silicate formulations differing from metasilicates. |
| 2839.90 | Other commercial alkali metal silicates: | Potassium and other alkali metal silicates not included above. |
| 2839.90.10.00 | Of potassium | Potassium silicates used in fertilizers, sealants, and fire retardants. |
| 2839.90.50.00 | Other | Additional commercial alkali metal silicates not classified under sodium or potassium. |
What is NOT Classified Here?
To ensure proper classification, note the following exclusions:
- Silicates combined with other chemical groups forming complex compounds that fall under different chemical headings.
- Non-commercial or naturally occurring silicates that are not processed or sold as alkali metal silicates.
- Silica gels and other amorphous silica products generally classified under other headings.
Notes
- Industrial Use: Products under this code are widely used in manufacturing industries such as detergents, water treatment, agriculture, and construction.
- Tariff and Duty Rates: Duty rates for these chemicals vary based on the specific 10-digit code and country of origin; importers should consult the latest USHTS schedules.
- Safety and Handling: Alkali metal silicates are alkaline and require proper handling and safety measures during import and use.
Declaration Example
Product: Shipment of potassium silicate solution for industrial fertilizer production.US HTS Code:
2839.90.10.00(Of potassium)Unit of Quantity: Kilogram (kg)
General Duty Rate: Check current USHTS (Subject to specific chemical import regulations)
Additional Requirements: Compliance with chemical import regulations and safety documentation.
Related HTS Codes
- HTS 2818: Inorganic bases and hydroxides; commercial alkali metal hydroxides.
- HTS 2821: Iron oxides and hydroxides.
- HTS 2841: Salts of inorganic acids or peroxoacids.
- HTS 3206: Other inorganic pigments.











