34024200
SOAP, ORGANIC SURFACE-ACTIVE AGENTS, WASHING PREPARATIONS, LUBRICATING PREPARATIONS, ARTIFICIAL WAXES, PREPARED WAXES, POLISHING OR SCOURING PREPARATIONS, CANDLES AND SIMILAR ARTICLES, MODELLING PASTES, 'DENTAL WAXES' AND DENTAL PREPARATIONS WITH A BASIS OF PLASTER›Organic surface-active agents (other than soap); surface-active preparations, washing preparations (including auxiliary washing preparations) and cleaning preparations, whether or not containing soap, other than those of heading 3401
Non-ionic
Classification of non-ionic surfactants
CN code 340242 covers non-ionic organic surface-active agents, whether or not put up for retail sale. Non-ionic substances do not dissociate into ions in aqueous solution and include ethoxylated alcohols, nonylphenol ethoxylates, alkyl polyglucosides (APG), sorbitan esters (Tweens, Spans) and ethylene oxide-propylene oxide block copolymers (Pluronics).
REACH, CLP and environmental regulations
Non-ionic surfactants are subject to REACH and CLP. Nonylphenol ethoxylates (NPE) are SVHC substances restricted under REACH Annex XVII - their use above 0.1 per cent in textile and leather processing preparations is prohibited. Alkyl polyglucosides (APG) are considered ecological and readily biodegradable. Regulation (EC) No 648/2004 on detergents requires full biodegradability of surfactants.
Trade and customs procedures
Import under CN code 340242 requires a commercial invoice, Safety Data Sheet and REACH confirmation. Major suppliers include Germany, China and the United States.
Detergent classification under Reg. 648/2004
Importing Non-ionic surface-active agents (CN 3402 42) is subject to Regulation (EC) 648/2004 on detergents. Surfactants must meet biodegradability requirements (minimum 60% within 28 days). Labels must include composition, warnings, and manufacturer data per CLP. Products for skin contact are additionally subject to Cosmetics Regulation 1223/2009. Import requires a Safety Data Sheet and correct CLP classification. Packaging must comply with Packaging Directive 94/62/EC. Customs control may verify phosphate content. REACH registration applies for volumes above 1 tonne per year.
Frequently asked questions
Are nonylphenol ethoxylates banned in the EU?
Nonylphenol ethoxylates (NPE) are restricted under REACH Annex XVII. Their use above 0.1 per cent in textile and leather processing preparations is prohibited. Nonylphenol is an SVHC due to endocrine disrupting properties.
What biodegradability requirements apply to non-ionic surfactants?
Regulation (EC) No 648/2004 requires full aerobic biodegradability of surfactants used in detergents. Non-ionic surfactants must achieve 60 per cent degradation in a biodegradation test within 28 days.
Are APGs more ecological than traditional ethoxylates?
Yes. Alkyl polyglucosides (APG) are produced from renewable raw materials (sugars, coconut oils) and are readily biodegradable. They do not exhibit aquatic toxicity typical of ethoxylates and are preferred in ecological formulations.
Do detergents CN 3402 42 fall under Regulation 648/2004?
Yes, detergents and surfactants under CN code 3402 42 are subject to Regulation (EC) 648/2004 regarding biodegradability, labelling, and phosphate limitations.
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