3802.90 - Other:

This category, HTS 3802.90, encompasses "Other" activated natural mineral products and animal blacks, excluding those explicitly classified under 3802.10. It serves as a residual category for activated materials that possess absorptive properties but are not solely defined as activated carbon. The focus here is on natural minerals that have undergone activation processes to enhance their porosity and surface area, as well as animal-derived blacks, which are carbonaceous materials produced from animal matter.

Unlike its sibling, 3802.10 (Activated carbon), which specifically refers to carbon derived from organic sources like coal, wood, or coconut shells, this category is broader. It includes activated materials derived from inorganic natural sources or from animal processing. The key distinguishing factor is the origin and the specific activation process employed to achieve adsorptive capabilities, setting them apart from the more common, solely carbon-based activated materials.

Within this broad category, further subdivisions exist to refine classification. HTS 3802.90.10.00 covers Bone black, which is derived from charred animal bones and is often used as a pigment or decolorizing agent. HTS 3802.90.20.00 addresses Activated clays and activated earths, such as bentonite or fuller's earth, which are processed to increase their adsorbent capacity for various industrial applications, including purification and filtration. Finally, HTS 3802.90.50.00 serves as a catch-all for any other activated natural mineral products or animal blacks not otherwise specified.