3817.00.10.00 - Mixed linear alkylbenzenes

This HTS category, 3817.00.10.00, specifically covers "Mixed linear alkylbenzenes." These are chemical products that are mixtures of benzene molecules substituted with linear alkyl chains. The term "mixed" indicates that the alkyl chains are not uniform in length and can vary, while "linear" denotes that the alkyl chains themselves are unbranched. These compounds are primarily used as intermediates in the production of detergents and surfactants.

The distinction between this category and its sibling, 3817.00.15.00 ("Other"), lies in the specificity of the chemical structure. While 3817.00.10.00 exclusively pertains to mixtures of *linear* alkylbenzenes, the "Other" category would encompass any mixed alkylbenzenes that do not meet the linear criteria, potentially including branched alkyl chains, or other types of mixed alkylbenzenes not otherwise specified. It is crucial for classification to confirm the linearity of the alkyl substituent on the benzene ring.

As this is a leaf node in the HTS classification structure, there are no further subcategories for this specific code. Therefore, the classification of goods under 3817.00.10.00 relies solely on the precise definition of mixed linear alkylbenzenes and their exclusion from headings 2707 or 2902, which cover specific aromatic hydrocarbons and their derivatives respectively.