As is the case with copper, lead has also been a familiar metal used by human beings since ancient times. Lead, a highly malleable and easy to melt metal, is widely used in various industries even today. However, due to its highly toxic nature, the use of lead has been facing pressure from environmentalists in recent years. The pressure to end manufacture of lead-based paints is an example of the growing concern on the potential health hazards caused by lead.

Global Situation

Australia and China are the leading suppliers of lead in the world. Lead is mainly used today in lead-acid storage batteries, electrical systems of motor vehicles, ships etc. It is used in hospitals to block X-rays and gamma radiation. Lead is used to build systems to prevent radiation in nuclear installations as well as during the transportation of fissile materials. It is also used as a soundproofing material in buildings. China, India, Japan, US and European Union are the main consumers of lead in the world. Lead is traded mostly as soft lead, animated lead, lead alloys and copper-based lead scrap.

Indian Situation

India imports nearly 50 percent of its lead requirement every year. Lead production in India is estimated to be around 82,000 ton. Lack of any major lead ore deposit is the main constraint for enhancing domestic lead production.