Fibres; artificial filament tow of cellulose acetate

HS code 550210 covers the production of artificial filament tow of cellulose acetate. This industry plays a crucial role in the global textile and apparel supply chain, providing a key raw material for the manufacture of various synthetic fabrics and garments. Cellulose acetate filament tow is a versatile and widely used material, finding applications in a range of industries beyond textiles, including personal care, industrial, and even automotive products.

The production of cellulose acetate filament tow involves a multi-step process. First, cellulose is chemically modified through acetylation to create cellulose acetate. This material is then extruded through spinnerets to form continuous filaments, which are then drawn and crimped to create the final tow product. The tow is typically cut into staple fibers of various lengths to suit the needs of downstream textile manufacturers.

The primary raw material for this industry is purified cellulose, often derived from wood pulp or cotton linters. Other key inputs include acetic anhydride and other chemicals used in the acetylation process. Specialized extrusion and crimping equipment is also essential for the production of the cellulose acetate filament tow.

The primary output of this industry is 550210 Fibres; artificial filament tow of cellulose acetate, which is then consumed by various textile manufacturing industries to produce a wide range of fabrics and garments. These may include 540233 Fabrics; woven, of synthetic filament yarn, containing 85% or more by weight of textured polyester filaments, 540244 Fabrics; woven, of synthetic filament yarn, containing less than 85% by weight of such fibres, mixed mainly or solely with cotton, of a weight not exceeding 170 g/m², and 540249 Fabrics; woven, of synthetic filament yarn, containing less than 85% by weight of such fibres, mixed mainly or solely with cotton, of a weight exceeding 170 g/m².