Chemical Woodpulp, Dissolving Grades

Dissolving grades typically require alpha-cellulose content of 90–96% or higher depending on end use, compared to roughly 80–88% for standard kraft paper pulp. This specification is set by the buyer's process requirements (rayon, acetate, or microcrystalline cellulose production) and is the key commercial and classification differentiator. Importers should retain mill certificates documenting cellulose content to support the heading 4702 classification if questioned.

Both sulfite (4702000020) and sulfate (4702000040) dissolving pulps are classified within heading 4702 and share the same general duty treatment. The process distinction is captured at the 10-digit statistical level for trade-flow tracking purposes, not to create a duty differential. Importers should identify the correct statistical suffix based on the manufacturing process documented in the mill's technical data sheet.