Production and consumption

First traded on LME: 1903
Current specification introduced: 1968
World production: 10 million tonnes per annum (2011)

Lead use has changed over time and batteries now account for about 80% of world consumption. Although petrol, soldering and plumbing no longer account for significant lead use, its malleable, dense and anti-corrosive properties mean lead is now often used to line tanks that store corrosive liquids and as a shield against X and gamma-ray radiation. Other uses include the manufacture of paints and pigments and other chemical compounds.