CLA-2-39:S:N:N1:238 866082
Mr. E.F. Winkel
Kanematsu USA Inc.
114 West 47th St. - 23rd Floor
New York, N.Y. 10036
RE: The tariff classification of SEP/SEPS, Hydrogenated Styrene-
Isoprene Block Copolymers, in bulk form contain varied amounts of
polyisoprene (EP) and polystyrene (S) combined in di-block (SEP)
or tri-block (SEPS) thermoplastic polymers from Japan
Dear Mr. Winkel:
In your letter dated August 7, 1991 you requested a tariff
classification ruling.
SEP/SEPS are thermoplastic elastomers which consist of
varied amounts of polyisoprene (EP) and polystyrene (S) combined
in di-block (SEP) or tri-block (SEPS) copolymers. SEP 1001 and
SEPS 2006 contain 65% isoprene; SEPSs 2002, 2003, 2023, 2043,
2063, and 2005 contain from 70% to 87% isoprene. SEP/SEPS are
used in adhesives, pressure-sensitive adhesives, sealants,
asphalts, polymer alloys, thermosetting resins, and molding
compounds.
The applicable subheading for the SEP/SEPS will be
3902.90.0050, Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States
(HTS), which provides for other, other olefin polymers. Note 4
to Chapter 39 in the HTS provides that
block copolymers are to be classified in the heading covering
polymers of that comonomer which predominates by weight
(isoprene) over every other single comonomer (styrene). The rate
of duty will be 2.2 cents per kilogram plus 7.7 percent ad
valorem.
This merchandise may be subject to the regulations of the
Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Pesticides and Toxic
Substances. You may contact them at 402 M Street, S.W.,
Washington, D.C. 20460, telephone number (202) 554-1404) or EPA
Region II at (908) 321-6669.
This ruling is being issued under the provisions of Section
177 of the Customs Regulations (19 C.F.R. 177).
A copy of this ruling letter should be attached to the entry
documents filed at the time this merchandise is imported. If the
documents have been filed without a copy, this ruling should be
brought to the attention of the Customs officer handling the
transaction.
Sincerely,
Jean F. Maguire
Area Director
New York Seaport