2902.50.00.00 - Styrene

This classification, HTS Code 2902.50.00.00, specifically identifies Styrene. Styrene is a fundamental organic chemical, classified within Chapter 29, which encompasses organic chemicals. It is a vinyl-substituted benzene, characterized by its aromatic ring structure with an attached vinyl group. In its pure form, it is a colorless liquid with a sweet smell, although it can polymerize readily, especially when exposed to heat or light.

Styrene is distinct from its sibling categories primarily by its chemical structure, which includes a reactive vinyl group. While other cyclic hydrocarbons like Benzene (2902.20.00.00), Toluene (2902.30.00.00), and Xylenes fall under the broader "Cyclic hydrocarbons" heading, they lack the readily polymerizable vinyl substituent that defines styrene. Ethylbenzene (2902.60.00.00), a precursor to styrene, is also distinguished by the absence of this vinyl group.

As HTS Code 2902.50.00.00 is a leaf node, there are no further subcategories. Classification at this level is solely dependent on the identification of Styrene itself. Its primary application is as a monomer for the production of various polymers and copolymers, most notably polystyrene, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR), and styrene-butadiene latex. Therefore, classification under this HTS code is for Styrene in its pure or technical grade forms, prior to its polymerization into finished plastic materials.