2916.32 - Benzoyl peroxide and benzoyl chloride:

This HTS category, 2916.32, specifically covers benzoyl peroxide and benzoyl chloride. These are aromatic organic compounds characterized by the presence of a benzoyl group attached to either a peroxide linkage (in benzoyl peroxide) or a chlorine atom (in benzoyl chloride). Benzoyl peroxide is commonly recognized as a strong oxidizing agent and a radical initiator used in polymerization processes, as a bleaching agent, and in medicinal formulations for acne treatment. Benzoyl chloride, on the other hand, is a reactive acyl halide primarily used as an intermediate in the synthesis of dyes, perfumes, pharmaceuticals, and pesticides.

This classification is distinguished from its sibling categories by its focus on specific benzoyl derivatives. For instance, 2916.31 covers benzoic acid, its salts, and esters, which are structurally related but lack the peroxide or halide functional groups that define 2916.32. Similarly, 2916.34 pertains to phenylacetic acid and its salts, a different aromatic carboxylic acid derivative. The residual category, 2916.39, is for other aromatic monocarboxylic acids, their anhydrides, halides, peroxides, peroxyacids, and their derivatives that do not fit into the more specific preceding headings.

Within 2916.32, two distinct subcategories are provided to further delineate the classification: 2916.32.10.00 for benzoyl peroxide and 2916.32.20.00 for benzoyl chloride. This subdivision allows for precise identification and potential differential treatment of these two important, yet chemically distinct, compounds based on their unique properties and applications.