Tantalum; waste and scrap

hs code 810330 covers tantalum, a rare and valuable metal with a wide range of industrial applications. Tantalum is known for its high melting point, corrosion resistance, and ability to store electrical charge, making it essential for various electronic components, aerospace technologies, and chemical processing equipment. The global tantalum industry plays a crucial role in supporting the growth and innovation of many high-tech industries, contributing to the broader economy.

Tantalum is primarily extracted from mineral ores, such as columbite-tantalite (also known as coltan), through a multi-step process. This process typically involves crushing and concentrating the ore, followed by chemical extraction and purification to obtain pure tantalum metal. Recycling of tantalum-containing waste and scrap is also an important source of supply, as it allows for the recovery and reuse of this valuable material.

The production of tantalum requires several key inputs, including tantalum-bearing mineral ores, chemical reagents for extraction and purification, as well as specialized equipment and machinery for mining, processing, and refining operations. Additionally, the industry relies on a skilled workforce with expertise in metallurgy, chemical engineering, and materials science.

The primary output of hs code 810330 is refined tantalum metal, which is then used in the manufacture of a wide range of products, including 851780 Electrical machinery and equipment and parts thereof; sound recorders and reproducers, television image and sound recorders and reproducers, and parts and accessories of such articles, 902300 Instruments and apparatus for measuring or checking electrical quantities, and 840710 Spark-ignition reciprocating or rotary internal combustion piston engines. Tantalum is also a key component in the production of various 854231 Diodes, other than photosensitive or light-emitting diodes and 854232 Transistors, other than photosensitive devices.