Cadmium; waste and scrap

hs code 810730 covers the classification of cadmium and cadmium waste and scrap. Cadmium is a soft, bluish-white metal that is primarily used in the production of nickel-cadmium batteries, pigments, coatings, and metal plating. As a byproduct of zinc, lead, and copper production, the cadmium industry plays an important role in the broader metal manufacturing and recycling sectors.

Cadmium is primarily extracted as a byproduct during the smelting of other metal ores, such as zinc, lead, and copper. The cadmium-containing materials are then processed through various refining and purification techniques to produce high-purity cadmium metal. This includes processes like electrolytic refining, distillation, and chemical precipitation. Cadmium waste and scrap is also collected and recycled through similar metal recovery methods.

The main inputs required for the cadmium industry include zinc, lead, and copper ores, as well as the necessary equipment and infrastructure for metal smelting, refining, and recycling. Additionally, the industry relies on a range of chemical reagents, energy sources, and skilled labor to carry out the various production and processing steps.

The primary outputs of the cadmium industry are refined cadmium metal and cadmium-containing products, such as batteries, pigments, and coatings. The cadmium metal produced may be further consumed by industries covered under other HS codes, such as 850760 Lithium-ion batteries, 282580 Cadmium compounds, and 760110 Unwrought aluminium. The cadmium waste and scrap generated during production and consumption can also be recycled and reused.