Rubber; vulcanised (other than hard rubber), in plates, sheets and strip of cellular rubber

HS code 400811 covers the classification of vulcanized rubber, other than hard rubber, in the form of plates, sheets, and strips of cellular rubber. This industry plays a crucial role in the broader rubber and plastics sector, providing essential materials for a wide range of applications across various industries, including automotive, construction, and consumer goods. The production and trade of these rubber products are integral to the global economy, supporting the manufacturing and supply chain processes of numerous downstream industries.

The production of vulcanized cellular rubber products under HS code 400811 typically involves a multi-step process. First, raw rubber materials, such as natural or synthetic rubber, are compounded with various additives, including fillers, accelerators, and vulcanizing agents. The rubber compound is then extruded or calendered into the desired shape and thickness, forming the cellular structure through the introduction of gas or air bubbles. Finally, the cellular rubber sheets or strips undergo vulcanization, a heat-based process that cross-links the polymer chains, enhancing the material's strength, elasticity, and durability.

The main inputs required for the production of HS code 400811 products include raw rubber materials, both natural and synthetic, as well as a range of chemical additives such as fillers, accelerators, and vulcanizing agents. Additionally, specialized machinery, such as extruders, calenders, and vulcanization equipment, are essential for the manufacturing process. The availability and quality of these raw materials and production equipment are crucial factors in determining the overall competitiveness and output of this industry.

The primary outputs of the HS code 400811 industry are vulcanized cellular rubber products in the form of plates, sheets, and strips. These materials find widespread application in various industries, including 401110 (Rubber; new pneumatic tyres, of a kind used on motor cars (including station wagons and racing cars)) and 401120 Rubber; new pneumatic tyres, of a kind used on buses or lorries, where they are used as components in the production of tires and other rubber-based automotive parts. Additionally, these cellular rubber products are utilized in the manufacturing of 401700 Rubber; articles n.e.c. in chapter 40, such as seals, gaskets, and insulation materials, catering to the needs of the construction, industrial, and consumer goods sectors.