2916.39.77.00 - Esters of phenylacetic acid

This HTS category, 2916.39.77.00, specifically classifies esters derived from phenylacetic acid. Phenylacetic acid is an aromatic carboxylic acid with a phenyl group attached to an acetic acid moiety. Esters are formed by reacting an acid with an alcohol, resulting in a compound where the hydroxyl group of the acid is replaced by an alkoxy group. Therefore, this classification covers a wide range of chemical compounds that are the product of such a reaction with phenylacetic acid, including methyl phenylacetate, ethyl phenylacetate, and other alkyl or aryl esters. These compounds find applications in various industries, including fragrances, flavors, and as intermediates in pharmaceutical synthesis.

The distinction between this specific category and its sibling, 2916.39.79.00 ("Other"), lies in the precise chemical structure. While 2916.39.79.00 would encompass other aromatic monocarboxylic acid esters not specifically enumerated elsewhere within the 2916.39 heading, 2916.39.77.00 is exclusively for those derived from phenylacetic acid. This specificity is crucial for accurate tariff assessment, ensuring that goods are categorized according to their exact chemical origin and composition rather than being broadly classified as "other."

As this node is a leaf node within the HTS structure, there are no further subcategories to introduce. The classification ends here, meaning that any ester of phenylacetic acid, regardless of the specific alcohol used in its esterification or its particular physical form (liquid, solid, etc.), will fall under this precise HTS code, provided it meets the general requirements of Chapter 29 for organic chemicals.