2907.15 - Naphthols and their salts:

This HTS category, 2907.15, specifically encompasses naphthols and their corresponding salts. Naphthols are a class of organic compounds derived from naphthalene by the substitution of a hydroxyl group. These compounds are characterized by their aromatic structure and the presence of the phenolic hydroxyl group, which imparts specific chemical properties and reactivity. This classification applies to both the free naphthol compounds and their alkali metal or alkaline earth metal salts.

Distinguishing 2907.15 from its sibling categories, we see that 2907.11.00.00 covers phenol itself and its salts, while 2907.12.00.00 pertains to cresols. Category 2907.13.00.00 is dedicated to octylphenol and nonylphenol isomers. Therefore, 2907.15 is specifically for naphthol derivatives, differentiating them based on their distinct chemical structures which are based on a naphthalene ring system rather than a benzene ring or alkyl-substituted phenols.

Within 2907.15, further subdivisions exist to categorize specific types of naphthols. The subcategories include α-Naphthol (2907.15.10.00) and β-Naphthol (also known as 2-Naphthol, 2907.15.30.00), which differ in the position of the hydroxyl group on the naphthalene structure. The "Other" category (2907.15.60.00) is for any naphthols or their salts not specifically listed under the more precise subheadings, ensuring comprehensive coverage.