Find product HS Code and trade information for sponge

Sponge

A sponge is a porous material, typically used for cleaning, absorbing liquids, or as a structural component in various applications. Its defining characteristic is its ability to hold a significant volume of liquid relative to its size.

Material

Sponges can be either natural or synthetic.

• Natural Sponges: Harvested primarily from the sea, these are the skeletons of marine animals belonging to the phylum Porifera. The most commercially valuable species are those of the genus Spongia. They are composed of spicules (structural fibers made of silica or calcium carbonate) and spongin (a collagen-like protein).
• Synthetic Sponges: Manufactured from various polymers, including cellulose (wood pulp-based), polyurethane, melamine foam, and polyvinyl chloride (PVC). Cellulose sponges are the most common type.

Purpose

The primary purposes of sponges are:

• Cleaning: Removing dirt, dust, and spills from surfaces.
• Absorption: Soaking up liquids, such as water, oil, or chemicals.
• Structural Support: Providing cushioning or filtration in applications like medical implants or vehicle filters.
• Cosmetic application: Applying makeup (beauty sponges).

Function

Sponges function through their porous structure. The interconnected network of pores creates a large surface area, allowing for capillary action to draw liquids into the material. The material's flexibility allows it to conform to irregular surfaces, enhancing cleaning or absorption.

Usage Scenarios

• Household Cleaning: Dishes, countertops, floors, bathrooms, kitchens.
• Automotive: Washing and detailing vehicles, applying waxes and polishes.
• Medical: Wound care, surgical applications, drug delivery.
• Cosmetics: Applying foundation, concealer, and other makeup products.
• Painting: Applying paint and varnish.
• Filtration: Removing particles from liquids or air.
• Packaging: Cushioning fragile items during shipping.

Common Types

• Cellulose Sponges: Inexpensive, highly absorbent, readily available. Commonly used for general household cleaning. Biodegradable, but can harbor bacteria if not properly cleaned.
• Polyurethane Sponges: Durable, resistant to tearing, and available in various densities. Often used in automotive detailing and industrial cleaning.
• Melamine Sponges (Magic Erasers): Highly abrasive, effective at removing stubborn stains and scuff marks. Use with caution on delicate surfaces.
• Sea Sponges: Natural, soft, and highly absorbent. Often used for delicate cleaning tasks and personal hygiene. More expensive than synthetic options.
• Beauty Sponges: Specifically designed for applying makeup, typically made of hydrophilic polyurethane.
• Surgical Sponges: Sterile and highly absorbent, used in medical procedures.

The declared goods are categorized as plates, sheets, film, foil, and strip of plastics. Here's a breakdown of potentially relevant HS codes based on the provided information:

• 3921.13.19.50: This HS code covers “Other plates, sheets, film, foil and strip, of plastics: Cellular: Of polyurethanes: Combined with textile materials: Other Other”. This applies to cellular plastic plates, sheets, film, foil, or strip made of polyurethanes and combined with textile materials. The total tax rate is 60.3%, comprising a 5.3% base tariff and a 25.0% additional tariff, increasing to 30% after April 2, 2025.
• 3921.90.29.00: This HS code covers “Other plates, sheets, film, foil and strip, of plastics: Other: Combined with textile materials and weighing more than 1.492 kg/m²: Other”. This applies to other plastic plates, sheets, film, foil, or strip combined with textile materials and exceeding a weight of 1.492 kg/m². The total tax rate is 59.4%, consisting of a 4.4% base tariff and a 25.0% additional tariff, rising to 30% after April 2, 2025.

According to the provided reference material, the HS code options related to 'sponge' are limited, with only the following 2 found.