Ash and residues — such as incinerated sweepings from jewelry workshops or spent catalysts reduced to powder — fall under 711230, while solid scrap pieces, clippings, and turnings go to the metal-specific subheadings (711291 for gold, 711292 for platinum-group). The physical form and the recovery process used downstream both inform the correct subheading.

Precious-metal scrap can be subject to hazardous-waste regulations under the Basel Convention and US EPA rules if it contains toxic co-contaminants (e.g., spent catalysts with heavy metals). Exporters and importers should verify whether the material triggers EPA or foreign environmental-agency notification requirements in addition to standard customs documentation.