Cellulose ethers; (other than carboxymethylcellulose and its salts), in primary forms

HS code 391239 covers a range of cellulose-based chemical compounds known as cellulose ethers. These versatile materials find widespread applications across various industries, including construction, pharmaceuticals, and personal care products. As a key component in many everyday items, the cellulose ethers industry plays a vital role in the global economy, contributing to the development and production of essential consumer and industrial goods.

The production of cellulose ethers typically involves a multi-step process. First, cellulose is extracted from natural sources, such as wood pulp or cotton linters. The cellulose is then chemically modified through an etherification reaction, where specific functional groups are introduced to alter the cellulose's properties. This process is carefully controlled to achieve the desired characteristics, such as viscosity, solubility, and stability. The resulting cellulose ethers are then dried and packaged in their primary forms, ready for further processing and incorporation into a wide range of products.

The primary inputs for the cellulose ethers industry include cellulose-based raw materials, such as wood pulp or cotton linters, as well as various chemical reagents and catalysts used in the etherification process. Additionally, specialized production equipment, such as reactors, drying systems, and packaging machinery, are essential for the efficient and consistent manufacture of these materials.

Cellulose ethers produced under HS code 391239 are widely used as thickening agents, binders, and stabilizers in a variety of applications. They are commonly found in construction materials, such as 3824 (Prepared binders for foundry moulds or cores; chemical products and preparations of the chemical or allied industries (including those consisting of mixtures of natural products), not elsewhere specified or included), as well as in pharmaceutical formulations, personal care products, and food additives. The outputs of this industry are often consumed by manufacturers operating under other HS codes, such as 3824 (Prepared binders for foundry moulds or cores; chemical products and preparations of the chemical or allied industries (including those consisting of mixtures of natural products), not elsewhere specified or included), 3305 Preparations for use on the hair, and 3304 (Beauty or make-up preparations and preparations for the care of the skin (other than medicaments), including sunscreen or sun tan preparations; manicure or pedicure preparations), among others.