2812.12.00.00 - Phosphorous oxychloride

This HTS category, 2812.12.00.00, specifically classifies Phosphorous oxychloride. Phosphorous oxychloride is an inorganic chemical compound with the formula POCl₃. It is characterized by its highly reactive nature and is a colorless to pale yellow fuming liquid with a pungent odor. Its primary uses are as a chlorinating agent and a dehydrating agent in the synthesis of various organic and inorganic compounds, particularly in the production of phosphates, plasticizers, and pharmaceuticals.

To distinguish this entry from its sibling categories, it is important to note the specific chemical composition and function. While all entries under 2812.1 relate to chlorides and chloride oxides of nonmetals, Phosphorous oxychloride is uniquely characterized by the presence of both phosphorus and oxygen in its molecular structure, alongside chlorine. This differentiates it from Carbonyl dichloride (phosgene, 2812.11.00.00), which is a carbonyl compound, and Phosphorous trichloride (2812.13.00.00) and Phosphorous pentachloride (2812.14.00.00), which lack the oxygen atom present in Phosphorous oxychloride. Similarly, it is distinct from sulfur chlorides which involve sulfur instead of phosphorus.

As a leaf node within the HTS structure, 2812.12.00.00 does not have further subcategories. Therefore, classification at this level relies on the precise identification of the chemical substance as Phosphorous oxychloride based on its chemical formula and properties. Customs declarations should ensure that the imported or exported material definitively matches the description and chemical identity of Phosphorous oxychloride to ensure accurate classification under this heading.