3823.70 - Industrial fatty alcohols:

This HTS category, 3823.70, specifically classifies industrial fatty alcohols. These are defined as long-chain aliphatic alcohols, typically containing twelve or more carbon atoms, which are derived from the reduction of fatty acids or their esters. They serve as essential intermediates in a wide array of industrial applications, including the production of surfactants, lubricants, plasticizers, and cosmetics.

It is crucial to distinguish this category from its sibling, 3823.19, which covers industrial monocarboxylic fatty acids and acid oils from refining. While both are derived from fatty substances, 3823.70 exclusively pertains to the alcohol form, not the carboxylic acid form or the impure oils resulting from fat refining processes. The chemical structure and functionality are key differentiators, with fatty alcohols possessing a hydroxyl (-OH) group as their primary functional group.

Within this classification, subcategories further refine the identification of industrial fatty alcohols. The primary subdivision is typically based on their origin or further processing. The existence of these subcategories allows for a more granular classification, enabling customs authorities and traders to accurately track and regulate specific types of fatty alcohols based on their source materials or manufacturing pathways.