The application of analytical methods for determining the rational composition of lead and zinc concentrate

Unlike other metals, Pb and Zn are not found free in nature but in the form of their minerals, from which they are extracted. Sulfide and oxide minerals of Pb exist in nature. Galena (PbS) is the most widespread sulfide mineral and is the most important Pb mineral, while cerussite (PbCO₃) is a significant Pb oxide mineral. Pb mineral deposits are composite, containing considerable amounts of Zn minerals. Therefore, Pb minerals are often referred to as Pb-Zn (lead-zinc) minerals. In smaller quantities, these deposits also contain minerals of other metals such as Fe, Cu, Sn, Sb, Cd, Bi, As, Ag, and Au, as well as trace amounts of rare metals. Zn minerals also exhibit sulfide and oxide characteristics. Many Zn-containing minerals exist in nature, but those of industrial importance include ZnS (sphalerite), mZnS·nFeS (marmatite), and ZnO (zincite). The process of obtaining lead and zinc primarily involves ore preparation through various processing methods to obtain either a collective lead-zinc concentrate or separate lead and zinc concentrates. After extracting the lead or zinc concentrate, the smelting process follows to produce the raw metal. If pure metal is required, it undergoes a refining process.