Rubber; reclaimed rubber, in primary forms or in plates, sheets or strip

HS code 400300 covers the industry of reclaimed rubber, which plays a crucial role in the broader rubber and plastics sector. Reclaimed rubber is produced by reprocessing used or scrap rubber products, allowing for the recovery and reuse of valuable rubber materials. This industry contributes to the circular economy by reducing waste and conserving natural resources, making it an important component of the global manufacturing landscape.

The production of reclaimed rubber typically involves a multi-step process. First, used or scrap rubber products are collected and sorted by type and quality. The rubber is then cleaned, shredded, and subjected to a devulcanization process, which breaks down the chemical bonds that give rubber its durability. The resulting material is then compounded with various additives and re-vulcanized to create a new, usable form of rubber.

The primary inputs for the reclaimed rubber industry include used or scrap rubber products, such as tires, hoses, and other rubber goods. Additionally, the industry requires specialized machinery for shredding, devulcanization, and re-vulcanization, as well as various chemical additives to enhance the properties of the reclaimed rubber. Energy sources, such as electricity or steam, are also necessary for the production process.

The main output of the reclaimed rubber industry is, of course, reclaimed rubber in primary forms or in plates, sheets, or strips, as described by HS code 400300. This reclaimed rubber can then be used as a raw material for the production of a wide range of rubber products, including 400110 Natural rubber and balata; in primary forms or in plates, sheets or strip, 400121 Rubber; natural, in other forms, smoked sheets, and 400122 (Rubber; natural, in other forms, technically specified natural rubber (TSNR)), among others.