To secure a sustainable competitive advantage some smelters may need
strategies based on flexibility in feed and product ranges depending on
immediate future projections of profitability. This paper explores the
technical requirements for strategic diversity in smelting, leaving
procurement, marketing and contractual considerations aside. The days
when a smelting operation is tied specifically to say only processing zinc
concentrates are perhaps drawing to a close. While internationally traded
mineral concentrates are available, attractive business opportunities must
exist for fully diversified custom smelters. Certain new and emerging
technologies have inherent characteristics that are evaluated in this
context. The paper identifies the basic building blocks that will permit
such a scenario and assesses the technical feasibility. The ability to
respond flexibly to environmental pressures is highlighted as being of
paramount importance.