Ion-exchangers; based on polymers of heading no. 3901 to 3913, in primary forms

HS code 391400 covers ion-exchangers, which are materials used to remove specific ions from solutions through an exchange process. These ion-exchangers are typically based on polymers from headings 3901 to 3913, such as polyethylene, polypropylene, or polystyrene. They play a crucial role in water treatment, chemical processing, and various other industrial applications, making them an important part of the broader chemicals and plastics industry.

The production of ion-exchangers involves several key steps. First, the base polymer is synthesized, often through polymerization or polycondensation processes. The polymer is then functionalized by introducing specific ion-exchange groups, such as sulfonic acid or quaternary ammonium groups, which give the material its ion-exchange properties. Finally, the functionalized polymer is shaped into the desired form, such as beads, membranes, or resins, through techniques like extrusion or molding.

The main inputs for the production of ion-exchangers include the base polymers (e.g., 390100 Polymers of ethylene, in primary forms, 390200 Polymers of propylene or other olefins, in primary forms, 390300 Polymers of styrene, in primary forms), as well as various chemicals and additives used for the functionalization process. Additionally, specialized production equipment, such as reactors, extruders, and molding machines, are required to manufacture the final ion-exchange products.

The primary output of HS code 391400 is ion-exchange materials, which are used in a wide range of applications. These include water treatment (382200 (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), industrial chemical processing (380200 Activated carbon; activated natural mineral products; animal black, including spent animal black), and even specialized applications like nuclear power (284410 (Natural uranium and its compounds; alloys, dispersions (including cermets), ceramic products and mixtures containing natural uranium or natural uranium compounds)).