3824.82 - Containing polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), polychlorinated terphenyls ({PCTs) or polybrominated biphenyls (PBBs):

This HTS category, 3824.82, covers a specific group of miscellaneous chemical products that contain certain halogenated organic compounds: polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), polychlorinated terphenyls (PCTs), or polybrominated biphenyls (PBBs). These substances are industrial chemicals that were widely used in the past for their insulating and flame-retardant properties, but are now largely restricted or banned due to environmental persistence and toxicity. The classification applies to preparations, mixtures, or goods where these specific compounds are present as defining components.

Within the broader Heading 3824, which encompasses various prepared binders, chemical mixtures, and allied industry products, subheading 3824.82 distinguishes itself by its focus on contamination or inclusion of PCBs, PCTs, and PBBs. This sets it apart from sibling categories such as 3824.81 (containing oxirane), 3824.83 (containing tris(2,3-dibromopropyl) phosphate), or those containing various pesticides like aldrin, dieldrin, or HCH. While siblings also address chemical products with specific hazardous components, the defining characteristic for 3824.82 is the presence of biphenyl or terphenyl derivatives.

The subcategories under 3824.82 further refine the classification based on the nature of the halogenation. Subheading 3824.82.10.00 specifically covers products where the biphenyls or terphenyls are chlorinated but not otherwise halogenated, meaning only chlorine atoms are attached. The residual category, 3824.82.90.00, accounts for all other preparations within this group that do not meet the specific criteria for 3824.82.10.00, which would include those containing brominated biphenyls (PBBs) or mixed halogenated biphenyls/terphenyls.