2818.10.20 - In grains, or ground, pulverized or refined

This HTS category, 2818.10.20, encompasses artificial corundum in various finely processed forms, specifically when presented as grains, or ground, pulverized, or refined. Unlike its sibling category 2818.10.10 (Crude), this classification is reserved for material that has undergone further physical processing to achieve a finer particle size or surface refinement. The emphasis here is on the physical state of the material after initial production, indicating a prepared state for specific industrial applications.

The distinction from "Crude" artificial corundum is primarily one of physical form and preparation. Crude forms would typically be larger agglomerates or less uniformly processed material, whereas this category focuses on material intentionally broken down or processed into grains, powders, or a refined state. This processing often prepares the material for use as abrasives, refractories, or in other specialized industrial applications where particle size and purity are critical.

This category further subdivides into two more specific subcategories: 2818.10.20.10, which covers white, pink, or ruby varieties containing more than 97.5 percent by weight of aluminum oxide, and 2818.10.20.90, which includes all other types. This differentiation highlights the importance of chemical purity and specific color designations (often indicative of trace elements and their intended use, particularly in gemstones or precision abrasives) in classifying these refined forms of artificial corundum.