Reusing Lead: Why is My Ingot Oxidizing?

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  • Thread starter Thread starter YoungPhysicist
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    Issues Lead Noble gases
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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the oxidation of lead ingots during the recycling process of molten lead from old bullets. Users confirm that the oxidation leads to significant lead loss each time the material is recast. They conclude that there are no simple solutions to prevent oxidation without utilizing noble gas atmospheres, emphasizing the challenges of maintaining lead purity due to potential alloyed metals present in the recycled material.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of lead metallurgy and properties
  • Knowledge of oxidation processes in metals
  • Familiarity with recycling techniques for metals
  • Awareness of safety protocols when handling toxic materials
NEXT STEPS
  • Research methods to minimize oxidation in metal casting
  • Explore the use of inert gas atmospheres in metal recycling
  • Learn about lead alloy compositions and their effects on purity
  • Investigate safety measures for handling and recycling lead
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for metal recyclers, hobbyist metal casters, and anyone involved in lead processing or concerned with the purity and safety of recycled lead materials.

YoungPhysicist
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Recently I've been recycling lead from old bullets.But everytime I recast the molten lead to an ingot, its surface is oxidized, therefore I am losing lead every single time I reuse it.

Are there simple solutions to this without using an atmosphere of noble gases?
 
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No.

(add all possible disclaimers about how lead is toxic and dangerous)
 
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Worse, it may not be pure lead. The possible presence of alloyed metals etc raises the stakes...
 

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