The metallurgy of antimony

Globally, the primary production of antimony is now isolated to a few countries and is dominated by China. As such it is currently deemed a critical and strategic material for modern society. The metallurgical principles utilized in antimony production are wide ranging. This paper will outline the mineral processing, pyrometallurgical, hydrometallurgical and electrometallurgical concepts used in the industrial primary production of antimony. As well an overview of the occurrence, reserves, end uses, production, and quality will be provided.