39074000
PLASTICS AND ARTICLES THEREOF›Polyacetals, other polyethers and epoxide resins, in primary forms; polycarbonates, alkyd resins, polyallyl esters and other polyesters, in primary forms
Polycarbonates
Product characteristics and classification
CN code 390740 covers polycarbonates (PC) in primary forms. Polycarbonates are engineering polymers obtained by polycondensation of bisphenol A with phosgene or diphenyl carbonate. PC features outstanding transparency (light transmission over 88 percent), excellent impact resistance (even at low temperatures), wide service temperature range (minus 40 to plus 130 degrees Celsius) and good dielectric properties. Products come as granules or powder. PC is used in producing roof panels, safety glazing, electronic device housings, optical lenses, data carriers (CD, DVD, Blu-ray) and automotive components.
Regulatory requirements and BPA
Importing polycarbonates into the EU is subject to REACH. Bisphenol A (BPA), the main monomer for PC production, is an SVHC substance due to endocrine-disrupting properties. Residual BPA in polycarbonate is strictly controlled. Food-contact PC must comply with Regulation (EU) No 10/2011 with a BPA specific migration limit of 0.05 mg/kg. Use of PC in infant feeding bottles is banned in the EU due to BPA (Regulation 321/2011). PC in electrical equipment is subject to the RoHS Directive. Medical-grade polycarbonates are subject to the Medical Devices Regulation (EU) 2017/745.
Trade and customs procedures
When importing polycarbonates under CN code 390740, customs documentation should include a technical specification with MFI, viscosity, residual BPA content and commercial form. Duty rates should be verified in the TARIC system. Major PC producers include Covestro (Makrolon), SABIC (Lexan), Mitsubishi Chemical (Iupilon), Teijin and Lotte Chemical. The PC market exceeds 5 million tonnes annually and is growing in automotive and electronics segments. PC granules are transported as non-hazardous goods.
Properties of Polycarbonates PC and trade applications
Polycarbonates PC classified under CN code 3907 40 are polymers in primary forms (granules, powder, liquid, block) imported as feedstock for plastics processing. Import requires REACH registration, Safety Data Sheets and technical specifications including molecular weight, density and melt flow index (MFI). Products intended for food contact must comply with Regulation (EU) 10/2011 and be listed on the positive monomer list.
Frequently asked questions
Does polycarbonate contain BPA?
Standard polycarbonate is produced from bisphenol A (BPA) and contains residual amounts. BPA-free polycarbonates also exist, e.g. based on isosorbide. Both types are classified under code 390740. Residual BPA content must be controlled, especially in food contact applications.
Can PC be used in infant feeding bottles in the EU?
No. Commission Regulation (EU) No 321/2011 bans the use of BPA-containing polycarbonate in infant feeding bottles on the EU market. The ban covers both production and import of finished bottles. BPA-free polycarbonate is not subject to this ban but must comply with general food contact material requirements.
What applications does optical-grade PC have?
Optical-grade polycarbonate (high-purity granules) imported under code 390740 is used in producing spectacle lenses, camera lenses, CD/DVD/Blu-ray data carriers and automotive headlamp covers. Optical grade requires low impurity and particulate content, affecting price.
What technical specifications are needed for import of CN 3907 40?
Import of CN 3907 40 requires specifications: molecular weight, density, MFI, comonomer composition. SDS and REACH registration above 1 tonne/year are mandatory. For food-contact applications, compliance with Regulation (EU) 10/2011 is required.
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