Compact mass.
Lead’s density is relevant to applications such as shielding. A useful property still needs a complete engineering design around it.
Element / 82
Meet lead.
A dense, workable metal with useful properties—and responsibilities that follow it through every application.
82Element profile
PbLead
207.2Relative atomic mass
The material, at a glance
- Atomic number
- 82
- Density
- 11.3 g/cm³
- Melting point
- 327.46 °C
- State at 20°C
- Solid
Values rounded where shown. Royal Society of Chemistry element reference.
From property to purpose
A material is useful
in context.
Shaped for a task.
The metal can be worked into sheet and other forms. This helps explain its long use in roofing and protective applications.
Another material life.
Recovered lead can return to productive use after suitable processing. Collection, quality and controlled operations determine the outcome.
Property and application background: Royal Society of Chemistry. Recovery context: IHS Markit.
Useful does not mean harmless.
Lead is toxic. The World Health Organization identifies serious health risks, particularly for children. A responsible material strategy accounts for exposure during use, maintenance and recovery.
Read the stewardship principles