3402.31.10.00 - Aromatic or modified aromatic

This HTS category, 3402.31.10.00, specifically covers linear alkylbenzene sulfonic acids and their salts that are classified as aromatic or modified aromatic organic surface-active agents. These compounds are characterized by a linear alkylbenzene group attached to a sulfonic acid group, which imparts their surface-active properties. They are widely used in the formulation of detergents, cleaning agents, and industrial surfactants due to their excellent emulsifying, wetting, and foaming capabilities.

Within the broader heading of anionic organic surface-active agents, this subheading differentiates itself from its sibling category, 3402.31.90.00, which encompasses "Other" linear alkylbenzene sulfonic acids and their salts that do not meet the criteria for aromatic or modified aromatic classification. The distinction often lies in the specific chemical structure or the presence of aromatic modifications that influence their performance and application.

As a leaf node in the HTS database, there are no further subcategories under 3402.31.10.00. Therefore, classification within this subheading relies on confirming that the product is indeed a linear alkylbenzene sulfonic acid or its salt and exhibits aromatic or modified aromatic characteristics, as opposed to other types of anionic surfactants or linear alkylbenzene sulfonic acids and their salts that fall under the "Other" residual subheading.