Nickel and articles thereof

HS code 75 covers nickel and articles made from nickel. Nickel is a hard, silvery-white metal that is highly resistant to corrosion and has a wide range of industrial applications. The global nickel industry is a crucial component of the broader metals and mining sector, supporting various downstream industries such as 72 Iron and steel, 76 Aluminum, and 85 Electrical machinery and equipment. Nickel's unique properties make it an essential material for manufacturing stainless steel, batteries, and other high-performance alloys, contributing to its significant economic importance.

The production of nickel involves several key steps. First, nickel-containing ores are extracted from mines and then processed through a series of beneficiation techniques, such as crushing, grinding, and flotation, to concentrate the nickel content. The concentrated nickel is then smelted and refined using various metallurgical processes, including pyrometallurgical and hydrometallurgical methods, to produce pure nickel metal or nickel-based alloys.

The main inputs required for the nickel industry include nickel-bearing ores, such as laterite and sulfide ores, as well as various energy sources, such as coal, natural gas, or electricity, to power the smelting and refining operations. Additionally, the industry relies on specialized machinery and equipment, including mining and processing equipment, as well as a skilled workforce to operate the production facilities.

The primary outputs of the nickel industry are refined nickel metal and nickel-based alloys, which are then used in a wide range of applications. Nickel is a key component in the production of 72 Iron and steel, where it is used to improve corrosion resistance and mechanical properties. It is also used in the manufacture of 85 Electrical machinery and equipment, such as batteries and electronics, as well as in the production of 76 Aluminum alloys and various other industrial and consumer products.