Lead; waste and scrap

HS code 7802 covers lead and lead waste and scrap. Lead is a dense, soft, and malleable metal that has been used for centuries in a variety of applications. It is a key material in the production of batteries, radiation shielding, and various other industrial and consumer products. The lead industry plays an important role in the global economy, supporting a range of downstream industries and contributing to the circular economy through the recycling of lead-containing waste and scrap.

The primary production technique for lead is smelting. Lead ore is extracted from mines and then smelted in high-temperature furnaces to separate the lead from other impurities. The smelted lead is then cast into ingots or other shapes for further processing. Lead-containing waste and scrap, such as old batteries, are also collected and recycled through smelting processes to recover the lead content.

The main inputs required for the lead industry include lead ore, energy sources for smelting (such as coal or natural gas), and specialized equipment and machinery for mining, smelting, and processing. Additionally, the industry relies on a skilled workforce to operate the production facilities and manage the various stages of the supply chain.

The primary output of the lead industry is refined lead metal, which is then used in the manufacture of a wide range of products, including 8507 lead-acid batteries, radiation shielding materials, and various metal alloys. Lead-containing waste and scrap, such as used batteries, are also important outputs that can be recycled and reused in the production of new lead-based products.