3804.00.10.00 - Lignin sulfonic acid and its salts

This HTS category, 3804.00.10.00, specifically classifies lignin sulfonic acid and its various salts. These are derived from the residual lyes generated during the manufacture of wood pulp. Lignin sulfonates are chemically modified byproducts of the pulping process, often concentrated, desugared, or otherwise chemically treated to enhance their properties and applications. Their primary utility lies in their surfactant and dispersing capabilities, making them valuable in industries such as concrete admixtures, animal feed binders, dust suppressants, and dispersants in agricultural chemicals.

This category is distinguished from its sibling, 3804.00.50.00, which covers "Other" residual lyes from wood pulp manufacture. While both are derived from the same source material, 3804.00.10.00 is specifically for the chemically defined lignin sulfonic acids and their salts. The "Other" category would encompass residual lyes that do not meet the definition of lignin sulfonates or have not undergone the specific treatments that define this subclass. It is important to note that tall oil, although also a byproduct of wood pulping, is explicitly excluded from heading 3804 and classified under heading 3803.

As this is a leaf node within the HTS, there are no further subcategories. Classification under 3804.00.10.00 hinges on identifying the material as lignin sulfonic acid or its corresponding salts, originating from wood pulp residual lyes. Importers and exporters should ensure that the documentation accurately reflects the chemical nature and origin of the product to facilitate correct customs processing.