Waxes; artificial and prepared, other than of polyethylene glycol

HS code 340490 covers a diverse range of artificial and prepared waxes, excluding those made from polyethylene glycol. These waxes play a crucial role in various industries, from cosmetics and personal care to industrial applications and automotive products. As a versatile group of materials, they contribute significantly to the global economy, finding use in a wide array of consumer and commercial goods.

The production of artificial and prepared waxes under HS code 340490 typically involves a combination of chemical synthesis and refining processes. Manufacturers may start with natural wax feedstocks, such as carnauba or beeswax, and then modify their properties through hydrogenation, esterification, or other chemical treatments. Alternatively, synthetic waxes may be produced from petroleum-based or other petrochemical precursors, using techniques like polymerization or Fischer-Tropsch synthesis.

The main inputs required for the production of HS code 340490 waxes include a variety of raw materials, such as natural waxes, fatty acids, alcohols, and various petrochemical derivatives. Specialized equipment, such as reactors, distillation columns, and purification systems, are also essential for the manufacturing process. Additionally, energy sources, catalysts, and other chemical additives may be necessary, depending on the specific production methods employed.

The waxes produced under HS code 340490 find applications in a wide range of industries and products. They are commonly used in the formulation of cosmetics, personal care items, and household products, such as 340530 Polishes and creams, for footwear, furniture, floors, coachwork, glass or metal and 340600 Candles, tapers and the like. These waxes also have industrial applications, including as lubricants, coatings, and additives in 271220 Petroleum jelly; paraffin wax, microcrystalline petroleum wax, slack wax, ozokerite, lignite wax, peat wax, other mineral waxes, and similar products and 340600 Candles, tapers and the like.