2901.10 - Saturated:

This category encompasses saturated acyclic hydrocarbons, which are organic compounds consisting solely of carbon and hydrogen atoms linked by single bonds in an open chain structure. These substances are characterized by their lack of double or triple carbon-carbon bonds. Examples include alkanes such as methane, ethane, propane, butane, pentane, and their isomers. They are fundamental building blocks in the petrochemical industry, serving as feedstocks for the production of plastics, synthetic fibers, and a wide array of other organic chemicals, as well as fuels.

This classification is distinct from its sibling category, "Unsaturated:" hydrocarbons, which by definition contain at least one carbon-carbon double or triple bond. The presence or absence of these unsaturations is a primary determinant for classification within the broader acyclic hydrocarbons chapter. Saturated acyclic hydrocarbons are generally less reactive than their unsaturated counterparts.

The subcategories within this heading differentiate based on specific common saturated acyclic hydrocarbons. This includes dedicated classifications for ethane and butane, and for n-pentane and isopentane, recognizing their high commercial volume and specific applications. A further "Other" category captures any remaining saturated acyclic hydrocarbons not specifically enumerated, ensuring comprehensive coverage within this group. This hierarchical structure allows for precise identification of a wide range of saturated acyclic hydrocarbon products for trade purposes.