3905.30.00.00 - Poly(vinyl alcohol), whether or not containing unhydrolyzed acetate groups 🖩

This HTS category, 3905.30.00.00, specifically classifies poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVOH) in its primary forms. PVOH is a synthetic polymer known for its excellent water solubility, film-forming capabilities, and adhesive properties. It is produced by hydrolyzing poly(vinyl acetate) and may contain residual unhydrolyzed acetate groups. This category encompasses various grades of PVOH, including powders, granules, and solutions, regardless of their physical state, as long as they are in their primary form before further processing or manufacturing.

Within the broader heading of polymers of vinyl acetate or other vinyl esters, this category stands apart from its siblings by focusing exclusively on the fully or partially hydrolyzed product of vinyl acetate polymerization. The sibling categories include poly(vinyl acetate) itself, which is the unhydrolyzed precursor, and vinyl acetate copolymers, which incorporate vinyl acetate with other monomers. Therefore, the key distinguishing factor is the extent of hydrolysis of the vinyl acetate ester groups to hydroxyl groups.

As this is a leaf node, there are no further subcategories within 3905.30.00.00. Classification under this code is determined by the material being identified as poly(vinyl alcohol) in its primary form. Practical classification will often rely on supplier documentation, chemical analysis to confirm the degree of hydrolysis, and visual inspection of the material's physical state.