Technical Names
Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration · May 23, 1996 · Reference No. 96-0239
Reggie’s quick take
A company asked whether "aqueous amino silane polymer" can serve as the technical name for a "Corrosive liquid, n.o.s." shipment under the Hazardous Materials Regulations. PHMSA said yes. Under § 171.8, a generic description can count as a technical name if it clearly identifies the general chemical group. PHMSA found that "silane" and "silane compounds" appear in chemical dictionaries now in use, so this name qualifies.
Written by AI (Claude) on Oct 22, 2026. Robots make mistakes and leave things out, so the letter below is what counts. Not legal advice.
This is in response to your letter dated April 15, 1996, requesting clarification on whether "aqueous amino silane polymer" is an acceptable generic chemical description for use as a technical name for "Corrosive liquids, n.o.s." as specified by the Hazardous Materials regulations (HMR; 49 CFR Parts 171-180).
In accordance with § 171.8, a "Technical name" is a recognized chemical name currently used in scientific and technical handbooks. Generic descriptions are authorized for use as technical names provided they readily identify the general chemical group.
It is the opinion of this office that "aqueous amino silane polymer" is an acceptable generic chemical name for "Corrosive liquid, n.o.s." since it does identify the general chemical group of "silane" and "silane compounds" found in chemical dictionaries currently being used.
I hope this answers your inquiry. If you need additional assistance, do not hesitate to contact us.
A letter of interpretation applies the regulations to the facts the requester described. It isn’t a regulation and isn’t legal advice. The agency’s copy.