2903.22.00.00 - Trichloroethylene

This classification, HTS 2903.22.00.00, specifically covers trichloroethylene, an unsaturated chlorinated acyclic hydrocarbon. Trichloroethylene is a clear, colorless liquid with a distinct odor, primarily utilized as a solvent for degreasing metals and in dry cleaning. Its chemical structure, characterized by three chlorine atoms and one double bond in an acyclic hydrocarbon chain, defines its placement within this subcategory.

Within the "Unsaturated chlorinated derivatives of acyclic hydrocarbons" category, trichloroethylene is distinct from its siblings. Vinyl chloride (2903.21.00.00) is a simpler, gaseous compound with a single chlorine atom, used as a monomer for producing PVC. Tetrachloroethylene (2903.23.00.00), on the other hand, is a more heavily chlorinated compound with four chlorine atoms, also used as a solvent but with different industrial applications and properties compared to trichloroethylene. The "Other" category (2903.29.00.00) serves as a residual for unsaturated chlorinated acyclic hydrocarbons not specifically enumerated.

As a leaf node, HTS 2903.22.00.00 has no further subdivisions. Classification at this level is determined by the precise chemical identity of trichloroethylene. Importers and exporters should ensure that the goods being declared accurately match the chemical and physical properties of trichloroethylene to avoid misclassification, as this compound is subject to specific regulations due to its industrial uses and potential environmental impact.