2907 - Phenols; phenol-alcohols:

This HTS category, 2907, encompasses phenols and phenol-alcohols. Phenols are organic compounds characterized by a hydroxyl group (-OH) directly attached to an aromatic hydrocarbon group, such as benzene. Phenol-alcohols, also known as phenolic alcohols or hydroxytoluenes, are compounds containing both a hydroxyl group directly attached to an aromatic ring (making it a phenol) and an alcohol functional group elsewhere in the molecule. These substances are fundamental building blocks in organic chemistry and find widespread application in the production of plastics, resins, pharmaceuticals, dyes, and agrochemicals.

Distinguishing this category from its siblings is crucial for accurate classification. While other sections and chapters of the HTS deal with a vast array of goods, including live animals (Chapter 01) or various manufactured products, Chapter 29 specifically focuses on organic chemicals. Category 2907 is thus differentiated from other organic chemical categories by its precise definition of compounds containing the phenolic hydroxyl group attached to an aromatic ring. For instance, it excludes alcohols where the hydroxyl group is attached to an aliphatic carbon chain, which would fall under different headings.

Within category 2907, further subdivision is made to distinguish between monophenols and polyphenols/phenol-alcohols. Monophenols are compounds with a single phenolic hydroxyl group, while polyphenols contain two or more such groups. Phenol-alcohols, as mentioned, possess both phenolic and alcoholic hydroxyl functionalities. This distinction is important because the specific number and type of hydroxyl groups can significantly influence the chemical properties and intended uses of the substance, thus affecting downstream applications and potentially duties.