Throughout recorded history lead is a metal that has been used by man with wide and varied applications. Even so, there have been few texts covering its extraction and production, particularly in recent times. This publication fills such a gap and provides a broad review of the main processes used for lead extraction and refining, the reasons why they are used, the chemistry involved, and the key features of their design and operation. Secondary recovery and smelting techniques are included as vital aspects of the industry._x000D_
This publication contains 17 chapters and over 300 pages, providing a broad perspective of the industry, and a base reference to stimulate further enquiry. The chapters give an industry perspective and introduction, historical background, raw materials, treatment processes, including smelting and refining, health and environmental issues, energy consumption and costs and economics of lead production.