2918.17.00.01 - 2,2-Diphenyl-2-hydroxyacetic acid (benzilic acid)

This classification covers carboxylic acids that possess an alcohol functional group but lack any other oxygen-containing functional group, along with their anhydrides, halides, peroxides, peroxyacids, and their derivatives. These compounds are characterized by the presence of both a carboxyl group (-COOH) and a hydroxyl group (-OH) within their molecular structure, distinguishing them from other categories within Heading 2918.

Within this group, 2,2-Diphenyl-2-hydroxyacetic acid, also known as benzilic acid (HTS 2918.17.00.01), stands apart from its siblings by its specific aromatic structure featuring two phenyl groups attached to the carbon bearing both the hydroxyl and carboxyl functionalities. For instance, while lactic acid (2918.11) and citric acid (2918.14) are also carboxylic acids with alcohol functions, they possess simpler aliphatic structures or additional oxygen functionalities not present in benzilic acid. Tartaric acid (2918.12), another related compound, is a dicarboxylic acid with two hydroxyl groups, presenting a distinct structural difference.

As this node is a leaf node, it signifies a specific chemical compound within the broader classification of carboxylic acids with alcohol functions. The explicit inclusion of "benzilic acid" under 2918.17.00.01 means that this particular substance, irrespective of its salts or esters (which would fall under separate subheadings if they existed), is directly classified here. This granular classification ensures precise identification for customs purposes, reflecting its unique chemical identity and potential uses.