glacial acetic acid hs code

Glacial Acetic Acid An Overview and Its HS Code

Glacial acetic acid, a colorless liquid that has a distinctive pungent smell, is a vital chemical compound used in various industrial and laboratory applications. With the chemical formula CH₃COOH, it is a saturated carboxylic acid characterized by its high purity and strong acidity. The term glacial refers to its ability to solidify at low temperatures, forming ice-like crystals, which is a hallmark of its concentrated form. The global importance of glacial acetic acid cannot be overstated, as it serves as a building block for numerous chemicals and products across various industries.

One of the primary uses of glacial acetic acid is in the production of acetate esters, which are commonly utilized as solvents in inks, paints, and coatings. Additionally, it plays a crucial role as a precursor in the synthesis of various organic compounds, including acetic anhydride and sodium acetate. The food industry also leverages glacial acetic acid for its antimicrobial properties and as a preservative, with diluted acetic acid being commonly found in vinegar, which is widely used in cooking and food preservation.

Despite its many applications, glacial acetic acid must be handled with caution due to its corrosive nature. Prolonged exposure can lead to skin and eye irritation, and inhalation of vapors can cause respiratory issues. Therefore, proper safety measures, including appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), must be implemented during its handling and storage.

The trade of glacial acetic acid is facilitated through specific international systems designed to classify goods, one of which is the Harmonized System (HS) code. The HS code is an internationally standardized system of names and numbers for classifying traded products. For glacial acetic acid, the HS code is 2915.21. This classification helps customs authorities and international traders streamline the tariff and regulatory processes for this chemical, ensuring compliance with global trade regulations.

As the demand for glacial acetic acid continues to grow, particularly in emerging markets where industrialization is on the rise, understanding its applications and regulations becomes increasingly important. The production of glacial acetic acid is typically achieved through the carbonylation of methanol or by the oxidation of hydrocarbons, with methanol being the more common raw material due to its availability and cost-effectiveness.

Market dynamics for glacial acetic acid are influenced by various factors, including the availability of feedstock, technological advancements in production methods, and regulatory changes across different regions. The global market is characterized by several key players, including companies that specialize in chemical manufacturing, and partnerships across industries that rely heavily on this compound.

In conclusion, glacial acetic acid, with its myriad applications ranging from industrial manufacturing to food preservation, plays a pivotal role in modern chemistry. Understanding its HS code, 2915.21, allows for better navigation of international trade, ensuring compliance and facilitating smoother transactions. As industries evolve and the demand for this essential chemical rises, continued research and development will likely reveal even more innovative applications for glacial acetic acid in the future.