8507 30Select TARIC subcode
Nickel-cadmium
Available TARIC subcodes: 4
Scope of subheading 850730 – NiCd accumulators
Subheading 850730 covers nickel-cadmium (NiCd) accumulators. NiCd batteries use nickel oxide cathode and cadmium anode with alkaline electrolyte (KOH). They offer high reliability, deep discharge tolerance and operation in extreme temperatures (-40 C to +60 C). Applications: emergency lighting, railways, aviation, industrial UPS, power tools (historically) and military systems. Consumer NiCd batteries have been largely replaced by NiMH and Li-Ion. Battery Regulation (EU) 2023/1542 restricts cadmium in portable batteries. Industrial NiCd accumulators remain available on the EU market. Classification per GRI 1 and 6.
Regulatory requirements – cadmium restrictions
Battery Regulation (EU) 2023/1542 prohibits portable batteries containing cadmium above 0.002% by weight, with exceptions for emergency lighting and alarm systems. Industrial NiCd batteries (railway, aviation, military) are permitted but subject to strict recycling requirements. Cadmium is toxic and carcinogenic – RoHS 2 (2011/65/EU) restricts cadmium in electronic equipment. NiCd battery transport subject to ADR (Class 8 or 9). CBAM does not apply.
Customs duties and trade
MFN rates should be verified in TARIC. NiCd market is shrinking in favour of NiMH and Li-Ion, especially in consumer segment. In industrial applications (railway, aviation, emergency lighting), NiCd maintains its position due to reliability and extreme condition tolerance. Main manufacturers: Saft (France), Alcad (Sweden), HOPPECKE (Germany). Imports from sanctioned countries restricted. VAT charged on import.
Frequently asked questions
Can portable NiCd batteries be placed on the EU market?
Generally no. Battery Regulation (EU) 2023/1542 prohibits portable batteries with cadmium above 0.002%. NiCd batteries inherently exceed this limit. Exceptions apply only for emergency lighting and alarm systems where NiCd provides critical reliability. Consumer NiCd batteries (power tools, toys) cannot be sold in the EU – replaced by NiMH and Li-Ion.
Why are NiCd batteries still used in industry?
NiCd batteries offer unique advantages in industrial applications: operation in extreme temperatures (-40 C to +60 C), deep discharge tolerance without cell damage, very long service life (15–25 years in stationary applications), reliability in critical systems (railway, aviation, emergency). NiMH and Li-Ion technologies do not match NiCd on all these parameters simultaneously.
Are NiCd batteries subject to CBAM?
No. CBAM covers: steel, aluminium, cement, fertilisers, electricity and hydrogen. Batteries from Chapter 85 are not within CBAM scope, regardless of nickel or cadmium content.