Lead
A metal that has been used for over 2,000 years.
Used by humans for more than 2,000 years, lead is a naturally occurring metal found in ores. Silver-grey in color with bluish reflections, it has physical properties that have made it an essential material in many industrial and technical applications.
Global production and consumption
Global mine production in 2025 amounted to approximately 4.5 million tons (USGS), mainly distributed among the following regions:
Europe accounts for approximately 4% of global lead production. Sweden is the leading producer, accounting for nearly 38% of European production.
Global consumption of refined lead in 2025 is estimated at 13.25 million tons (ILZSG - USGS).
Main consuming countries:
- China (more than 40% of global demand)
- United States
- India
- South Korea
- Japan
French consumption is estimated at approximately 100,000 tons of lead per year, representing nearly 0.8% of global consumption (13.25 Mt in 2025).
Applications
- As shot for hunting, fishing, or adjustable ballast.
- As plates for roofing, radiation protection, or sound insulation.
- In industrial and technical products: balancing weights, sealing weights, bowling pins, etc.
- Alloyed with other metals for telecommunications, cables, connections, chemical industry, etc.
It should be noted that global mine production (approximately 4.5 million tons) is significantly lower than refined lead consumption (13.25 million tons), because a large proportion of the supply comes from recycling (66%!). Worldwide, lead is one of the most extensively recycled metals.
A recyclable resource
Lead is a non-renewable mineral resource. However, it has a major environmental advantage:
it can be recycled virtually 100% and indefinitely!
Recycling makes it possible to:
- Preserve mineral resources;
- Significantly reduce energy consumption;
- Reduce the carbon footprint.
Characteristics of pure lead
- Density: 11.35.
- Melting point: 327°C. Low melting point = reduced energy costs compared to other metals.
- Very malleable, but not very strong when pure.
Health and safety
Lead is toxic if ingested or inhaled in high doses and can cause lead poisoning. Children are particularly susceptible. Regulations set strict thresholds and require medical monitoring, hygiene procedures, and specific treatment of contaminated water and waste in industrial settings. In its metallic form, lead is stable and not very soluble; it is mainly its oxides and vapors that pose a risk.
"This image reflects an exploration of sound and visual forms and volumes, revealing the mineral form of lead, galena. On the planet Venus, this crystallized metal is found falling on the peaks of certain Venusian volcanoes, such as Maat Mons."
Visuals: Still Snowing on Venus, Sophie Keraudren - Hartenberger.