Metallurgy of lead - Processes and classic primary resources

Lead metallurgy is becoming less and less dependent on natural resources, as recycling takes off in all countries.

This section describes the main natural resources and classic metallurgical operations based on the agglomerative roasting of mineral concentrates, followed by the smelting of the agglomerates to obtain a raw lead known as "working lead". Refining produces purified lead or "soft lead" and by-products (copper, silver, antimony, bismuth, etc.).

A second article [M 2 265] describes modern direct smelting processes for lead concentrates and secondary sources, as well as hydrometallurgical processes. Recycling is facilitated by the development of these processes.

Environmental protection is a major concern for all processes, given the risks posed not only by lead, but also by arsenic, cadmium, sulphur dioxide, etc.

In the "Further information" section, in addition to bibliographical references, the various aspects of the economics of lead are discussed, with data on prices, production, consumption and manufacturing costs.