Cellulose acetates; plasticised, in primary forms

HS code 391212 covers the classification of plasticized cellulose acetates in primary forms. Cellulose acetates are a type of thermoplastic polymer derived from cellulose, a natural polymer found in plant cell walls. These materials have a wide range of applications, including in the production of films, fibers, and molded products, making them an important component in various industries such as packaging, textiles, and electronics.

The production of plasticized cellulose acetates typically involves a multi-step process. First, cellulose is chemically modified through an acetylation reaction, where acetic acid and acetic anhydride are used to replace the hydroxyl groups in the cellulose structure with acetate groups. The resulting cellulose acetate is then combined with plasticizers, such as phthalates or citrates, to improve its flexibility and processability. The plasticized cellulose acetate is then extruded or molded into the desired primary forms, such as pellets, sheets, or rods.

The main inputs required for the production of plasticized cellulose acetates include cellulose, acetic acid, acetic anhydride, and various plasticizers. Additionally, specialized machinery, such as reactors, extruders, and molding equipment, is necessary to facilitate the chemical modification and shaping of the final product. Energy sources, such as electricity or steam, are also required to power the production processes.

Plasticized cellulose acetates produced under HS code 391212 are primarily used in the manufacture of a wide range of products, including 3912 Cellulose and its chemical derivatives, not elsewhere specified or included, in primary forms, 3920 Other plates, sheets, film, foil and strip, of plastics, non-cellular and not reinforced, laminated, supported or similarly combined with other materials, and 3926 Other articles of plastics and articles of other materials of headings 3901 to 3914. These materials find applications in industries such as packaging, textiles, electronics, and automotive components.