IRS Eyes Tax on Weird Styrene Chemical Blend Over 50%
Published Date: 1/14/2026
Notice
Summary
The IRS got a request to add a special chemical called Styrene-DVB-EVB (with over 50% styrene) to the list of substances that get a Superfund tax. This means companies dealing with this chemical might pay extra taxes if the change happens. People have until March 16, 2026, to share their thoughts or ask for a public hearing before any decision is made.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
Potential Superfund Tax on Styrene Polymer
A petition asks the IRS to add poly(styrene-divinylbenzene-ethylvinylbenzene) with styrene content over 50% (Styrene-DVB-EVB, CAS 69011-20-7) to the list of substances subject to the Superfund tax under Internal Revenue Code section 4672(a). The petitioner (Purolite LLC) calculated a tax rate of $9.93 per ton and provided HTSUS number 3903.90.5000 and Schedule B 3903.90.0000; the petition filing date for determination purposes is August 12, 2025. If the substance is added, companies that import or produce it may have to pay the Superfund tax at the applicable rate per ton.
Deadline to Comment or Request Hearing
Stakeholders have until March 16, 2026 to send written comments or ask for a public hearing about the petition to add Styrene-DVB-EVB (Styrene > 50%) to the taxable substances list (public docket IRS-2025-0600). Comments may be submitted at https://www.regulations.gov (docket IRS-2025-0600) or mailed to the IRS address in the notice, and all submissions will be posted publicly.
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