A brief overview on lead sinter microstructure is presented. Characteristic micro-structural features of a good and bad sinter are highlighted and these are used in a case study involving use of a low grade and complex concentrate of lead (-40% Pb) in the sintering operation. The plant sinter produced exhibited low strength and its nticrostructural examination revealed non-uniform distribution of porosity along with unsintered galena and low melting lead silicate phase. Part replacement of limestone by lime helped in producing sinter with good physical properties and desirable microstructure. The sinter with modified feed chemistry had more uniform distribution of porosity and presence of primarily a Pb-Fe silicate phase characterised by a (Pb+Fe):Si mole ratio of 3:1. Ca-Pb-Zn-Fe-Al-silicate phase identified as hardysonite and a spine! phase of the type (Fe,Zn)O.(Fe,Al),OJ. Lead nietal/oxide/sulphide occurred in the sinter only rarely. The likely implications of lime addition to the sinter charge mix are discussed Key Words: Lead. Complex and low grade concentrate. Sintering. Process Mineralog
