A process for the manufacture of pure metallic lead from exhausted batteries

摘要

The present invention relates to a process for the recovery of metallic lead from exhausted lead-acid batteries. According to the invention, the metallic scrap obtained thereof is treated by a smelting operation which is carried out under a layer of a molten flux. The flux comprises alkali hydroxide and optionally also carbonate(s) and sulfate(s) of said alkali. The temperature which is maintained during the smelting is between 350 DEG C. to 600 DEG C. and most preferably in the range of between 450 DEG C. to 550 DEG C. The preferred weight ratio between the metallic scrap and the flux is between 15 to 45. Generally, the alkali flux is selected from sodium hydroxide and potassium hydroxide and mixtures thereof. The process is characterized by a very extent of lead recovery compared with the known processes and absence of exhausted gases.