2530.90.20.00 - Natural micaceous iron oxides

This HTS category, 2530.90.20.00, specifically covers natural micaceous iron oxides. These are naturally occurring mineral substances characterized by their micaceous (flaky or layered) structure and their composition of iron oxides. They are typically found in a red, brown, or black color and are valued for their opacity and pigmenting properties. Applications often include their use as pigments in paints, coatings, and construction materials, as well as in some specialized industrial uses.

It is important to distinguish this category from its sibling, 2530.90.10.00, which covers natural cryolite and natural chiolite. While both fall under "Mineral substances not elsewhere specified or included," cryolite and chiolite are distinct fluoride-containing minerals, primarily used in aluminum production. This category, conversely, is limited to iron oxide-based minerals with a micaceous habit. The remaining sibling category, 2530.90.80, encompasses all other mineral substances not elsewhere specified or included within Chapter 25 that do not fit into the specific subcategories of 2530.90.

As 2530.90.20.00 is a leaf node in the HTS classification, there are no further subcategories. Classification into this heading relies on the identification of the material as a naturally occurring iron oxide exhibiting a micaceous structure. The absence of artificial processing for pigment purposes is a key criterion.